There are plenty of dangerous pet toxins out there. Did you know that there are many you probably already have in your home? The trick is knowing what to look out for so that you can keep your animal friend safe. Learn more here from your Cy-Fair veterinarian.

Toxic Human Food

Who doesn’t love feeding their dog table scraps? Just make sure you’re not giving your pet something harmful, because many kinds of human foods aren’t good for animals. The list includes garlic, onions, chives, scallions, shallots, leeks, grapes and raisins, gum, chocolate, candy, salt, fatty foods, buttery or rich foods, and alcohol, among others. To be safe, keep pets elsewhere when preparing meals, and store harmful foods in closed cabinets or containers where they belong.

Poisonous Plants

Some common plants and flowers that poison pets are lilies, dieffenbachia, tulips, daffodils, ivy, oleander, the sago palm, rhododendron (also called azalea), philodendron, aloe plants, and elephant ear. However, there are many more out there! Consult your veterinarian to find out what kind of toxic plants and flowers are common in your area, and check the APSCA’s website for a full list.

Cleaning Supplies

It’s difficult to find any cleaning product that would be entirely safe for your pet—keep your animal friend away from any and all cleaning supplies! If you’re using chemicals that give off strong fumes, move your pet elsewhere to a well-ventilated room. Store all chemicals on high shelves in your supply closet so that there’s no chance of your pet getting their paws on cleaning chemicals.

Pesticide Products

Do you use pesticides or rodenticides in your home to ward off insect and rodent intruders? Keep in mind that these products can prove very dangerous for house pets—after all, they’re formulated to kill the critters that come in contact with them! Place pesticides in areas where pets won’t have access, and consider using non-toxic alternative methods like traps.

Medications

Plenty of human medications—and even some that can be prescribed to pets—can poison a dog or cat. Aspirin, antidepressants, cough syrup, and a variety of prescription pills are just a few examples. NSAIDs, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are particularly common painkillers and are especially dangerous for pets. Store medications properly where your four-legged friend can’t reach. To learn more about keeping your pet safe at home, contact your Cy-Fair animal hospital today. We’re here to help!