Essential Tips for Poison-Proofing Your Home

Every year, thousands of pets suffer from accidental ingestion of harmful substances that are common in most of our households. Poison-proofing your home as a pet owner is one of the easiest ways to keep your pet away from household items that can cause serious illness and death in your cherished dog or cat.  

Let’s get started with some helpful tips to educate you on common household poisons, symptoms of poison ingestion, and what to do if your pet ever ingests a poisonous item. 

Common Household Pet Poisons 

The Pet Poison Helpline has compiled a list of some of the most common poisonous substances ingested by pets. Please note these items are not listed in any order in terms of the level of toxicity. 

Common Cat Toxins and Poisons: 
 

• Lillies 

• Chocolate 

• Antidepressant and Antianxiety Medications 

• Onions 

• Vitamin D3 Supplements 

• Ibuprofen 

• Garlic 

• ADD/ADHD Medications 

• Tylenol 

• Mouse and Rat Poison 

Common Dog Toxins and Poisons: 

• Chocolate 

• Grapes and Raisins 

• Xylitol (Found in many foods such as candy, gum, and even some brands of peanut butter) 

• Mouse and rat poisons  

• Ibuprofen 

• Antidepressant and Antianxiety Medications 

• Marijuana 

• Vitamin D3 Supplement 

• Onions 

• Tylenol 

• ADD/ADHD Medications 

Recognizing the Signs of Poisoning in Your Pet 

The symptoms your pet displays can vary greatly depending on the type of poison ingested. However, there are some common signs to watch for: 

• Gastrointestinal Symptoms: diarrhea, vomiting, drooling, lack of appetite, nausea. 

• Internal Bleeding Symptoms: racing heartbeat, pale gums, vomiting/coughing up blood, weakness/tiredness, and unconsciousness. 

• Liver Failure Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, black tarry stools, jaundice or yellow coloring to the gums, unusual behavior, weakness, and subsequent unconsciousness. 

• Kidney Failure Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst or urination, lack of appetite, halitosis/bad breath, and decreased/no urination. 

What to Do if Your Pet Needs Help 

If you suspect that your pet may have been poisoned, it is important to stay calm and act quickly. Please contact us immediately at (845) 278-8000 or call the Pet Poison Helpline at 800-213-6680 (fees may apply). 

Poison-Proof Your Home 

To reduce the likelihood of your pet being poisoned, you can be proactive in poison-proofing your home with these steps: 

• Secure all medications (prescription and over the counter) and cleaning products in an out-of-reach cupboard. Use this guide to identify potentially toxic items in your home. 

• Create a pet poison first aid kit to have on hand in case of an emergency 

• Evaluate the flowers and other plants in your home and yard to ensure they are not poisonous.  Find a list of pet-friendly plants here.  

• Be aware of potentially toxic foods and educate your family and guests to avoid them. 

Your pet's safety is our top priority. By taking simple steps to poison-proof your home and acting quickly if an accident occurs, you can help ensure your furry friends stay happy and healthy.  

If you have any concerns or need assistance with poison prevention, don't hesitate to reach out to us at (845) 278-8000. Together, we can keep your pets safe from harm!