1. Essential Oils. Essential oils have been in the news recently because they are harmful to pets. Essential oils create powerful aromas which, for pets with already enhanced sense of smell, can become overwhelming. Here is a good list of all the essential oils to avoid using in a home with pets.
2. Household Cleaners. Cleaners can cause harmful effects to cats, dogs and other pets. It’s best to leave them out of cleaning your pets beds, litter box or food dish. Instead, wash with gentle soap and warm water. Because cleaners have strong odors, they may be an attraction for your pet to ingest. Make sure all cleaners are stored away and sealed safely to avoid temptation.
3. Toads. If your little one brought a toad home, it could be a harmful toxin for a dog who might be tempted to lick the frog. Toads secrete a poisonous chemical that are immediate and life-threatening. If your house enjoys toads and dogs, keep them away from each other to avoid potential interactions.
4. Over the Counter Medications. My cat loves to crawl into my medicine cabinet. Exploring is one thing, trying some aspirin is another. Nearly every over the counter medication should be considered harmful to your pet. Thousands of pets who inject over the counter medicine each year because of careless storage. Keep the pills away in a cool, dry and secure location.
5. Onions and Garlic. Don’t leave the dropped onion or garlic clove on the floor! Allium found in garlic, onions, leaks and other veggies can damage red blood cells in your pet. Both are especially poisonous to cats, causing death in severe cases. You should also keep both away from dogs as well, because organ failure is a significant possibility.
6. Glow Sticks. If you’ve been to a party or concert you may take off your glow stick and leave it somewhere just lying around. To a pet a glow stick may be a welcoming treat. However, a pet that eats the chemicals inside a glow stick can cause a lot of pain and foaming of the mouth.
When in doubt keep anything you might think can harm your pet away from it. If you think your pet has ingested something toxic, be sure to call poison control or our emergency phone number, (913) 268-3797.
