The third week of March is Pet Poison Prevention Week. Did you know, each year, there are over 214,000 cases of pet poisoning in the United States? In some cases, the pet owners didn’t know the hidden dangers before it was too late. Most pet owners are aware of some of the dangers to pets, like household cleaners, chocolate, and pesticides. However there are other, lesser known pet poisons that you should keep away from your furry friends. Avoid keeping these pet poisons in your home for your pet’s safety:
- Essential Oils. Essential oils are a welcome way to relax for humans. For pets, however, they can create a lot of problems. Many essential oils, including liquid potpourris, can cause vomiting, or other more serious medical issues. Cats are especially susceptible to essential oil poisoning. Cats don’t have the required liver enzymes needed to metabolize essential oils. Younger cats and cats with liver troubles are especially at risk. Avoid any air fresheners, candles, etc that contain essential oils. Essential oils can be found in other common household items like cleaning products, makeup, food, drinks, and perfumes.
- Sugar Free Gum and Breath Mints. Sugar free treats are a great way to avoid too much sugar in your diet. To dogs, however, they can be deadly. These sugar free treats contain Xylitol, which is a poison to dogs. If you enjoy sugar free treats, read the ingredients, and if they contain Xylitol, make sure your dogs can’t access any of the food or wrappers. Read our blog on the dangers of Xylitol for dogs to learn more about this deadly toxin.
- Sago Palms. Who doesn’t love a tropical feel in the home, especially in the harsh Kansas City winters? If you have pets, however, don’t include sago palms in your home decor. Sago palms contain cycasin, which can cause liver and neurological problems in pets. Every part of this plant is dangerous to pets, but the seeds are the worst, and the most likely thing you pet will ingest.
- Bone Meal. Bone meal is a great organic fertilizer, however it should be avoided in your garden if you have pets that go outdoors. Bone meal is made of dried animal bones, which will be irresistible to your dog. Bone meal can form a large, heavy ball in the stomach that can block the gastrointestinal tract. If consumed, it may require surgery to remove.
- Batteries. No, your pet is not going to be tempted to eat a full battery. But batteries that are left lying around the house can be dangerous. If your pet punctures a battery with its paw and licks the paw, toxic fluids can get into the body. Don’t let your pets chew on remotes, or anything else with batteries. Keep all batteries stored away from your pet’s reach, and check them often to make sure they don’t leak.
There are a number of signs if your pet is suffering from a poisoning. Your pet will vomit, be lethargic, have spasms, become lethargic, drink excessive amounts of water, or change its behavior. If you believe your pet is suffering from poisoning contact us immediately. If it’s after hours, contact the National Poison Control Help Line at 1-800-222-1222.
