You want nothing more than to provide a safe and happy home for your four-legged BFF. In addition, you give your pet the most nutritious food and the comfiest bed, and spoil them with plenty of toys and treats. However, many dangers, seemingly ordinary items you use every day,  lurk in plain sight. Pet owners need to be aware of these common household hazards to keep their furry pals out of harm’s way. Learn which everyday household items can harm your four-legged friend by reading our Providence Vet team’s guide to protecting your pet.

Chocolate: A sweet treat with bitter consequences for pets

Chocolate may be one of life’s simple pleasures for people, but the food poses a real threat to your canine or feline companion. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine. Dogs and cats metabolize these chemicals at a much slower rate than people do, leading to a toxin buildup in their systems.  

Baking and dark chocolates have the highest toxin concentration, but even milk chocolate can cause problems if your pet ingests enough. Chocolate poisoning signs include vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, increased thirst, elevated heart rate, muscle tremors, seizures, and, in severe cases, death.

Xylitol: A sugar-free pet danger

Xylitol is an artificial sweetener commonly used as a sugar substitute, but for dogs, this substance is far from healthy. Even in a small amount, xylitol can cause a rapid blood sugar drop (i.e., hypoglycemia) and potential liver damage. 

Xylitol poisoning signs include weakness, vomiting, incoordination, tremors, and seizures, which can cause death. Be on the lookout for xylitol in seemingly innocent items, such as sugar-free gum, candy, peanut butter, baked goods, toothpaste, mouthwash, and some medications.

Grapes and raisins: Tiny fruits that cause big trouble for dogs

Grapes and raisins might be a tasty snack for people, but they pose a significant risk to pets, especially dogs. While the exact reason grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in some pets is still being researched, even if your dog eats a small amount, they can develop serious problems. If your dog has eaten grapes or raisins, early toxcity signs may include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. In severe cases, kidney failure can develop rapidly, potentially leading to a fatal outcome.

Onions, garlic, chives: Herbs that harm pets

These kitchen staples may add delicious flavor to your meals, but they contain thiosulfates, which are toxic to dogs and cats. Thiosulfates damage pets’ red blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia.  

Even if your pet eats a small amount of onions, garlic, or chives, whether raw, cooked, or in powdered form, they can become ill. Watch out for these ingredients in prepared foods, flavored chips, and even baby food.

More pet hazards lurking in your home

Several other seemingly harmless items around your house are hazardous to your pet. Watch out for these potential dangers:

  • Batteries — Batteries contain corrosive substances that can cause chemical burns if a battery is punctured. Ingestion may also lead to heavy metal poisoning.
  • Fabric softener sheets — Fabric softener sheets contain chemicals that can harm your pet. If your dog or cat chews one of these laundry products, they can experience drooling, vomiting, mouth or digestive tract ulcers, and even respiratory problems.
  • People’s medications — Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, acetaminophen, cold medicines, antidepressants, and other human medications can cause severe, even fatal, consequences for pets. Never give human medications to your pet without explicit instructions from our team.
  • Household cleaners — Many household cleaners contain chemicals that are hazardous to pets, causing burns, respiratory problems, or neurologic issues when ingested or inhaled. Opt for pet-safe cleaning products whenever possible.
  • Antifreeze — Antifreeze’s sweet flavor is enticing to pets, but this product is incredibly toxic and can cause kidney failure in dogs and cats. Even a small lick can be fatal.
  • Houseplants — Many common houseplants, such as lilies, tulips, azaleas, and sago palms, are toxic to pets.

How to protect your pet from household hazards

The best way to protect your pet from household hazards is through prevention. Follow these tips:

  • Store everything securely — Keep dangerous items out of reach in pet-proof areas or containers.
  • Supervise your pet — Be mindful of what your pet is exploring and chewing, especially puppies and kittens.
  • Train your pet — Teach your pet commands such as leave it and drop it.
  • Recognize poisoning signs — Learn to recognize pet poisoning signs such as lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, or seizures.

By being aware of potential dangers and taking preventive measures, you can help keep your pet safe from household hazards. If you are concerned about potential toxins in your home, contact our Providence Vet team for guidance and advice.