Manning Veterinary Hospital

Top 8 Common Household Poisons

The average home contains many possible poisons for pets and children. Properly storing and locking up hazardous items is the first step to preventing accidental poisonings. An additional thing to remember for pet owners is the ability of many pets to chew through child locking caps and "safe" containers. Here is a list, in no particular order, of some common toxins to be aware of to protect accidental ingestion by your pet (or children).

1. Antifreeze (Ethylene glycol)
Even if you aren't a mechanic working on cars in the driveway, cars may leak this fluid at any time of the year. It is a bright green-yellow liquid that is sweet to the taste, attracting pets. One swallow may be lethal for small animals! A safer alternative is propylene glycol.

2. Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medications
Everyone is familiar with the "Keep out of reach of children" warnings, but may underestimate their pets. My own dog once consumed almost a full bottle of Vitamin C tablets. It was sealed and on my countertop! Pre-natal vitamins may also be targeted by curious pets. Pills may be coated allowing for easier swallowing and a more pleasant taste. Pets have an advantage over children -- their strong jaws and teeth can chew through many "child safe" bottles.

3. Pest Control Baits and Poisons
Rat and mouse poisons and any other baits, such as slug and snail bait should be used with extreme caution in a household with pets. These items are baits -- they are made to entice animals to eat. Hiding the box behind the cupboard is not guaranteed safe, either. Pets have been known to move furniture or items to reach poisons. Also, other animals or events may move the poison into easy reach.

4. Household and Yard Plants and Trees
The beautiful plants and trees that adorn our homes and yards may also be deadly poison if ingested or even chewed upon. It is wise to confine pets from known poisonous plants if possible. Most county extension offices or gardening societies in your area will be able to assist you in selecting safe plants for your geographic area and climate.

5. Foods and Food Additives
Probably one of the most common known "food toxins" for pets is chocolate, but there are many others. Foods to keep away from pets include, but are not limited to: raisins and grapes and products containing xylitol (an artificial sweetener), macadamia nuts.

6. Flea and Tick Treatments
No one wants to deal with fleas and ticks and all of the problems they present. However, in the effort to rid your pet of these parasites, caution is advised -- these treatments are also toxins (designed to kill the parasites)! Used at the recommended dosages and protocols, pesticides should be safe for the animals that they are intended to be used on.
Using more of the product or not following product recommendations (especially using dog products on cats) is NOT the way to kill more fleas and ticks; it may seriously harmful or fatal for your pet.

7. Lawn and Garden Herbicides and Pesticides
Use of chemicals on lawns and gardens to control insects and weeds is common for many households. These chemicals are not intended for use on animals, so be sure to allow for proper drying time in the area before releasing pets to roll in, eat, or otherwise have contact with treated areas and plants. Store all containers in safe areas and dispose of empty containers safely. If at all possible, it is best reduce or eliminate the use of yard chemicals. Check with local pest and garden centers -- many now offer non-toxic, organic alternatives for pest and weed control.

8. Household Cleaners and Chemicals
Products used to clean the house, do laundry and dishes, maintain pools and hot tubs, and maintenance products such as paints and lubricants all pose a risk to curious or bored pets. Never assume that because the product is in a spray bottle or can that it is "safe". Newer products will have safety information about the product, often with a phone number to call in the event of ingestion or exposure.