March is Pet Poison Prevention Month, and we wanted to take some time to help you and your pets avoid any run-ins with toxic substances. Learn how to keep your pets safe from an accidental poisoning with these tips:
Common Pet Toxins
Food is one of the most common culprits in a pet poisoning situation. Please store the following items carefully and never allow your pet to eat these foods:
- Xylitol
- Chocolate
- Alcohol
- Onion, garlic, chives
- Raw or undercooked meat or bones
- Avocado
- Coffee (or other caffeinated beverages)
- Citrus
- Coconut and coconut oil
- Grapes or raisins
- Macadamia nuts, pecans, walnuts, and almonds
- Milk or dairy products
- Unbaked yeast dough
- Salted snacks
You can always reach the ASPCA Animal Poison Control line at (88) 426-4435, or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661. If you know what your pet consumed and the amount, please keep this handy.
Other Household Hazards
Because pets often pick up whatever they happen to find on or near the floor, be sure to keep the following medications off low surfaces and preferably behind sealed doors.
- OTC pain relievers
- Prescription medication, like birth control or antidepressants
- Vitamins
- Any medications for pets, including parasite prevention medication
Plants are also known to cause certain symptoms in pets, and some should never be displayed in a pet’s home or backyard. Always keep your pets away from these plants:
- Lilies
- Sago palms
- Cyclamen
- Oleander
- Any bulbed flower, such as daffodils, tulips, crocuses, bluebe;;s, snowdrops, and hyacinths
What Pets Should Avoid
Additionally, the following items found in the garage or garden shed should be carefully stored, cleaned up, and handled:
- Antifreeze
- Bleach
- Industrial cleaners
- Rodenticides, fertilizers, insecticides
Know the Signs of a Pet Poisoning
The ways pets are affected by toxins depends on species, age, weight and medical history, the type of toxin, and how it is absorbed by the body. If you notice any of the following symptoms in your pets, you should call your veterinarian immediately:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Agitation or restlessness
- Changes to heart rate
- Breathing difficulties
- Loss of consciousness
- Skin irritation
- Pain
- Excessive or uncharacteristic drooling
- Seizures or spasms
Many symptoms may be subtle at first, or may not even appear for days following initial exposure. Always watch your pet closely for any changes to their behavior and appearance, and act quickly whenever the above symptoms are present.
Also, if you notice any wrapping or packaging or other signs that your pet ate something they shouldn’t have, please don’t wait for symptoms to develop to seek help.
How to Help
Consult your pet’s veterinarian as soon as you realize they were exposed to something harmful.
- If it was something they inhaled, provide them with fresh air as soon as possible and keep their space well-ventilated.
- Chemical substances found on their fur or skin can be absorbed by paper towels or rags, but resist applying water or other cleansing solutions unless we advise you to do so. Wear gloves to protect yourself.
- We can try to induce vomiting but due to certain risks this should not be attempted at home.
Kestrel Veterinary Hospital is always here to help pets in Edmonds, WA. Please contact us with any questions or concerns.