This week is Pet Poison Prevention Week, a full week dedicated to educating pet owners on the potential poisons in their homes, backyards, neighborhoods and more.
Whether you are a new pet owner or have an exceptionally curious pet who likes to get into a little mischief, knowing what items are toxic or hazardous can feel a little overwhelming. You may find yourself asking “what isn’t toxic to my pet?!”
We understand that feeling and we’ve got you covered.
Below are some common and potentially hazardous items that the ASPCA and subject matter experts suggest could cause toxicity or injury to your pet. With this knowledge at your fingertips, you can protect your pet by taking the appropriate precautions to prevent exposure or ingestion of these items and keep them away from potentially harmful situations.
Home & Garden Hazards
There are several household and outdoor items that could be potentially toxic and/or hazardous to your pet. Check your home and surroundings and eliminate access to these common items:
Harmful Human Foods & Drinks
Human food is always a temptation to our beloved pets. Be aware of what is hazardous and avoid giving them access to:
Poisonous Plants
There are many common flowers and household plants that can cause digestive distress or physical injuries, or contain toxins that can be harmful if ingested. This includes:
While these are the most common, there are others that have been known to cause systemic effects or varying degrees of gastrointestinal upset in pets. To view photographs and a much more extensive list of harmful plants, visit the ASPCA website.
Medication & Cosmetics
Medications of any kind should always be kept out of reach. Although this may seem obvious, it’s best to check your pet’s access to these items:
Additional Harmful Objects & Situations
Sometimes the simplest items go unnoticed, and pets find their way to playing with or chewing on them. The following items may cause other injury to your pets:
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For a more comprehensive list and explanation of items in the above categories, visit aspca.org.
The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is available 24 hours a day for any pet poison emergencies. If you think your pet has ingested something potentially dangerous, call 888-426-4435.
