Pet Poison Prevention Awareness Month
March is designated as Pet Poison Prevention Awareness Month. Understanding what potential harmful poisons exist in your home and yard is the first step to keeping your pet safe. Some are obvious; others may be new to you.
Pets can become extremely ill after ingesting many common household foods, products and plants; therefore, a thorough inspection of your home including outside areas can help reduce the risk. Instinctively, pets are curious creatures, particularly cats, and if a partially empty container with cleaner, alcohol or medications is left out, your pet may want to "investigate." It's not hard to imagine that when a spilled toxic fluid gets on a cat's paw, the kitty will naturally clean itself with her tongue, ingesting something harmful. With our pet's smaller bodies and weight, just a small amount could be fatal.
Here is the top 10 Pet Poison List for dogs and cats from the Pet Poison Helpline. Based on the Pet Poison Helpline call volume and extensive database, these are the most common toxins the hotline receives calls about. Keep in mind that some of these listed are extremely toxic while some are minimally toxic (like ant baits and silica packs). When in doubt, call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline (800-213-6680) to ensure there won't be a problem. Take special care to keep these toxins out of your pet's reach and pet-proof your house!
Dog Poisons:
Chocolate
Mouse and Rat Poisons (rodenticides)
Vitamins and Minerals (e.g., Vitamin D3, iron, etc.)
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen, etc.)
Cardiac Medications (e.g., calcium channel blockers, beta-blockers, etc.)
Cold and Allergy Medications (e.g., pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine, etc.)
Antidepressants (e.g., selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors)
Xylitol (common in toothpaste and chewing gum - read your labels to ensure your pet is safe!)
Acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol)
Caffeine Pills
Cat Poisons:
Topical spot-on insecticides
Household Cleaners
Antidepressants
Lilies
Insoluble Oxalate Plants (e.g., Dieffenbachia, Philodendron, etc.)
Human and Veterinary NSAIDs
Cold and Flu Medication (e.g., Tylenol)
Glow Sticks
ADD/ADHD Medications/Amphetamines
Mouse and Rat Poison
If you suspect your pet has ingested any of these items or another questionable substance, call the Pet Poison Helpline at 800-213-6680 or your veterinarian for assistance. Accurate and timely identification of the suspected substance is important. Having the container, package or label in hand will save valuable time and may save the life of your pet.