Pet poisoning is sadly a very common occurrence. The U.S. Humane Society estimates that as many as 10,000 cats or dogs die each year as a result of ingesting a toxic substance. One of the main reasons for this is that many owners aren’t fully aware of which things could be harmful to their pets, nor do they necessarily recognize the signs that their pet may have ingested something poisonous and needs medical help.
Top Pet Poisons:
Many different substances are known to be toxic to pets. These can typically be divided into groups based on their types.
Common Human Food Pet Poisons
Chocolate
Candies and sweet foods containing xylitol
Anything containing caffeine
Grapes and raisins
Macadamia nuts
Avocado
Pits and seeds from fruits and vegetables
Milk and dairy products
Common Indoor Pet Poisons
Human medications
Animal medications (taken without supervision has the potential for overdose)
Cleaning products
Toothpaste
Indoor plants and flowers such as lilies, begonias, aloe, and Bird of Paradise
Common External Pet Poisons
Antifreeze
Pool cleaning chemicals
Insecticides and rodenticides
Paint
Engine oil and other car fluids
Fertilizers
Outdoor plants and flowers, such as tulips, daffodils, and rhododendrons
Top Signs of Pet Poisoning
Every animal responds to poisoning slightly differently, and this can vary depending on their breed, size, age, and how much of the toxin they have ingested. The symptoms of poisoning can also progress if they aren’t noticed fairly quickly. Some of the most common signs of pet poisoning that owners should be aware of include:
Vomiting and diarrhea
Excessive salivation
Loss of appetite
Racing heart rate
Pale gums
Coughing up/vomiting blood
Excessive thirst
Inability to urinate
Black, tarry stools
Confusion
Lethargy
Jaundice
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If you suspect that your pet may have ingested something toxic, it is essential to obtain advice from our veterinary team as soon as possible. Please refrain from inducing vomiting unless explicitly instructed to by a professional. For more advice and support surrounding pet poisoning, please contact our veterinary clinic in Chino Hills.
