What You Should Know About Pet Poison Prevention

This Information Could Save Your Pet's Life

Many common indoor and outdoor household items that are safe for humans can be extremely harmful to our pets. Each year, thousands of cats and dogs accidentally ingest household poisons. March 20 to 26, 2022 is Pet Poison Prevention Week and we are sharing some of the most harmful items to our pets, how to recognize signs associated with pet poisoning and what to do if you suspect your furry friend has ingested something potentially poisonous.

Top Pet Poisons

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) lists the top ten pet poison toxins of 2020 as follows:

1. Over the counter medications - ibuprofen, acetaminophen and supplements
2. Human prescription medications - antidepressants and cardiac medications 
3. Human foods – grapes, garlic, onions, xylitol (a sugar substitute), protein bars
4. Chocolate – ingesting a lot of chocolate can be especially harmful to dogs 
5. Plants and flowers – check out the ASPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic plants
6. Household toxicants – cleaning, beauty and home repair products
7. Rodenticides – chemicals usually formulated as baits used for killing rodents
8. Veterinary products – chewable medications like calming chews
9. Insecticide – ant bait, bug spray and other products used to kill insects
10. Garden products – fertilizers and freshly fertilized lawn

Common Signs of Pet Poisoning

Signs of pet poisoning can vary a great deal based on what has been ingested. Some of the most common signs generally include (but are not limited to):

• Loss of appetite
• Drooling/hypersalivation
• Excessive thirst
• Increase or decrease in urination
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Weakness
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness

What to do if you think your pet has ingested a poisonous substance

If you think your dog or cat has ingested something poisonous remain calm and contact your local veterinarian/veterinary hospital as soon as possible, or call the 24/7 Animal Poison Control Center or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC).  Any of these places can help you determine what your next steps should be. 

For additional resources on pet poison prevention visit:

24/7 Animal Poison Control Center 

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC)