Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/pet-poison-safety/
National Poison Prevention Week, observed annually during the third full week of March, serves as a crucial reminder of the dangers of poisonings for people and pets alike.
With millions of exposure cases reported every year, this event is an important tool in highlighting education and awareness in preventing accidental poisonings.
Signs of pet poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
The Underestimated Threat in Our Homes
Household items, often overlooked, pose significant risks to pets. The ASPCA reports nearly 200,000 potential pet poison cases annually, underscoring the need for vigilance. From common foods to everyday cleaning products, numerous household items can be toxic to our pets. Chocolate, xylitol, human medications, and certain plants like lilies and sago palms are particularly dangerous.
The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center provides a 24-hour hotline for pet poisoning emergencies.
Alarming Trends in Pet Poisonings
Recent years have seen a worrying increase in pet poisonings. The ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center received over 401,000 calls in 2021, and only through increased awareness and prevention measures can we bring these numbers down. Trupanion, a pet medical insurance provider, has paid over $10.7 million in pet poison and toxicity claims, with chocolate ingestion being the most common cause, reports State Farm.
Immediate veterinary care is crucial if pet poisoning is suspected.
Recognizing the Signs of Poisoning
Prompt identification of poisoning symptoms can save a pet’s life. As PetMD reports, signs vary but can include vomiting, seizures, difficulty breathing, or changes in bathroom habits. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic substance.
Pet-proofing your home includes securing trash bins and storing hazardous substances out of reach.
Common Household Toxins
Many everyday items can be harmful to pets. Cleaning products, certain foods, auto products, and yard care substances are just a few examples. Even essential oils, increasingly popular for personal care, can be toxic to dogs and cats, Cabbagetown Pet Clinic reports.
Chocolate is highly toxic to dogs, containing substances that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and severe complications.
Foods and Baking Ingredients
- Chocolate: Contains methylxanthines, toxic to pets, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and more severe symptoms.
- Grapes and Raisins: Can cause kidney failure in dogs.
- Xylitol: A sweetener in many sugar-free products; even small amounts can cause hypoglycemia and liver failure in dogs.
- Onions and Garlic: Can cause gastrointestinal irritation and red blood cell damage.
- Yeast Dough: Can expand in a pet’s stomach, leading to bloating and potential alcohol poisoning from fermentation.
- Macadamia Nuts and Mushrooms: Toxic to pets, causing various symptoms including weakness, vomiting, and tremors.
Educating yourself on common pet toxins is crucial for preventing accidental pet poisonings.
Cleaning and Auto Products
- Bleach and Detergents: Can cause mouth ulcers, vomiting, and respiratory distress if ingested.
- Antifreeze: Contains ethylene glycol, which is sweet-tasting but deadly, leading to kidney failure.
- Motor Oil: Can lead to long-term health issues if ingested.
- Rodenticides and Insecticides: Highly toxic, causing bleeding disorders, kidney failure, or seizures.
Human medications, including over-the-counter painkillers, can be lethal to pets if ingested.
Medications
- NSAIDs (e.g., Advil, Aleve): Can cause stomach and intestinal ulcers and kidney failure.
- Antidepressants: Can lead to neurological issues like sedation, tremors, and seizures.
- Prescription Drugs: Various prescription medications can be toxic, depending on the specific drug and dosage.
Certain houseplants like lilies are extremely dangerous to cats, potentially causing kidney failure.
Plants and Garden Products
- Lilies: Highly toxic to cats, can cause kidney failure.
- Sago Palm: Toxic to both dogs and cats, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, and potential liver failure.
- Fertilizers: Some contain harmful chemicals that can cause gastrointestinal irritation and more severe symptoms.
- Daffodils and Tulips: Bulbs are particularly toxic, causing gastrointestinal symptoms and potentially heart problems.
Other Common Toxins
- Essential Oils: Some oils can be toxic to pets, causing liver damage and neurological symptoms.
- Lead-Based Paints: Can cause lead poisoning, leading to severe gastrointestinal and neurological issues.
- Alcohol: Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, central nervous system depression, difficulty breathing, tremors, coma, and even death.
Antifreeze, containing ethylene glycol, is sweet-tasting but deadly to pets, leading to kidney failure.
Prevention: The Best Cure
Prevention is key in protecting our pets. Keeping dangerous items out of reach, pet-proofing the house, and being aware of the plants and foods that are harmful to pets are essential steps. Furthermore, educating ourselves and spreading awareness can significantly reduce the risks of accidental poisoning.
Tips for Keeping Pets Safe
- Store Hazardous Items Securely: Keep toxins in high or locked cabinets.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Ensure that pets can’t access trash bins.
- Use Pet-Safe Products: Opt for cleaning and garden products labeled as safe for pets.
- Supervise Your Pets: Keep a close eye on them, especially when they are in areas with potential hazards.
Commit to pet poison safety and take the pledge.
Emergency Preparedness
Having a plan in case of poisoning is vital. This includes keeping important phone numbers handy, such as the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center and local emergency veterinary clinics. A well-stocked first aid kit and quick access to a veterinarian can make a crucial difference in an emergency.
As responsible pet owners, it’s our duty to ensure the safety of our animals. National Poison Prevention Week is a timely reminder to reassess our homes and habits to safeguard our pets from potentially lethal substances. By staying informed and vigilant, we can significantly reduce the risk of accidental poisonings and ensure our pets live long, healthy lives.
Make a commitment to the heath and wellness of your pet by taking the poison safety pledge. Click below and take action!
Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog
