Common Household Items That Are Toxic to Pets

Pet poisonings are one of the most common emergencies veterinarians see. Many dangerous items are things we use every day without thinking. Here's what to watch for.

Foods Toxic to Pets

Highly Toxic

• Chocolate: Dark and baking chocolate are most dangerous. Can cause heart problems and seizures.
• Xylitol: Found in sugar-free gum, candy, peanut butter. Causes rapid insulin release and liver failure in dogs.
• Grapes and raisins: Can cause kidney failure in dogs. Even small amounts are dangerous.
• Onions and garlic: Damage red blood cells. Toxic to both dogs and cats.
• Macadamia nuts: Cause weakness, vomiting, tremors in dogs.
• Alcohol: Even small amounts are toxic.

Moderately Toxic

• Caffeine: Coffee, tea, energy drinks
• Avocado: Persin is toxic to birds and some mammals
• Raw yeast dough: Expands in stomach, produces alcohol
• Salt: Large amounts cause sodium poisoning

Plants Toxic to Pets

Extremely Dangerous

• Lilies: All parts deadly to cats (kidney failure)
• Sago palm: All parts toxic, especially seeds; liver failure
• Oleander: Affects the heart
• Autumn crocus: Multiple organ failure

Moderately Toxic

• Azaleas and rhododendrons
• Tulip and daffodil bulbs
• Dieffenbachia
• Philodendron
• Pothos
• English ivy
• Aloe vera

Medications

Human Medications (Never Give Without Vet Approval)

• Ibuprofen/Naproxen: Stomach ulcers, kidney failure
• Acetaminophen: Liver damage, especially toxic to cats
• Antidepressants: Neurological effects
• ADHD medications: Heart problems, tremors, seizures
• Blood pressure medications: Can cause severe drops in blood pressure

Pet Medication Dangers

• Overdose of flea/tick medication
• Dog medications given to cats (some are fatal to cats)
• Overdose of pet medications

Household Products

Cleaning Products

• Bleach
• Drain cleaners
• Oven cleaners
• Toilet bowl cleaners
• Laundry pods (especially dangerous due to concentrated detergent)

Automotive Products

• Antifreeze: Sweet taste attracts pets; even small amounts are deadly
• Motor oil
• Windshield washer fluid

Yard and Garden

• Fertilizers
• Pesticides and insecticides
• Herbicides
• Cocoa mulch
• Slug bait (metaldehyde)
• Rodent poison

Other Hazards

• Essential oils: Many are toxic, especially to cats
• Batteries: Cause chemical burns if chewed
• Pennies (post-1982): Contain zinc, which causes hemolytic anemia
• Glow sticks: Cause mouth irritation
• Hand sanitizer: Contains alcohol

Emergency Response

If you suspect poisoning:

1. Remove your pet from the source
2. Do NOT induce vomiting unless instructed
3. Call your vet or ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 (fee applies)
4. Have the product packaging ready for reference
5. Note the time of exposure and amount consumed

Prevention Tips

• Store medications in closed cabinets
• Keep foods out of reach (dogs can counter-surf)
• Use pet-safe cleaning products when possible
• Check plant toxicity before bringing them home
• Supervise pets in garages and workshops
• Use pet-safe pest control methods

A few minutes of pet-proofing can prevent a devastating emergency. When in doubt about any item, assume it's not safe for pets.