You want the home you share with your four-legged family members to be a safe, comfortable shelter. Unfortunately, most of us fill our homes with products that seem harmless to us but can pose severe risks to our furry companions. From plants, to coins, to everyday cleaning products, you will likely be surprised by the myriad household dangers. To help you provide a safer home for your pet, our Smithtown Animal Hospital team highlights common items that are potential dangers.

Grievous greenery: Plants toxic to pets

Many beloved houseplants are toxic and can harm your pet if they ingest them. Some popular poisonous examples include:

  • Lilies, especially for cats
  • Poinsettias
  • Aloe vera
  • Yews
  • Oleanders
  • Rhododendrons
  • Azaleas
  • Daffodils and narcissus bulbs
  • Sago palms
  • Philodendrons

If your pet is a plant nibbler, take caution and select only non-toxic plants to beautify your home and garden, and if you have a cat, never bring a lily into your home. Even drinking the water in the vase or ingesting small pollen particles when grooming can lead to severe kidney failure. The ASPCA website has a robust list of non-toxic plants. Remember, too, that any household plant your pet eats, whether poisonous or not, can cause gastrointestinal upset.

Terrible treats: Foods toxic to pets

You may wish to give your “good boy” or “good girl” snacks from the fridge or your plate. While this is tempting, ensure you’re not giving them something toxic or harmful. Many foods you enjoy eating are toxic for your cat and dog, including:

  • Chocolate
  • Onions and garlic
  • Grapes and raisins 
  • Raw bread dough
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Avocados
  • Fruit pits
  • Alcohol
  • Caffeine

Other, less common problem foods include greasy and sugary foods, which are not toxic to pets but can cause gastrointestinal or other medical issues. Bones also commonly injure dogs, because bones splinter or break and become a choking or internal injury hazard. Instead, give your pet their usual, safe pet treats as a reward for being wonderful.

Damaging disinfectants: Household cleaners that can harm pets

You no doubt keep a clean, tidy house to curb the spread of germs and make the place smell great. However, many cleaning products are hazardous to pets, because they contain chemicals that can harm your pet if they consume or inhale them. Pet-toxic household products include:

  • Bleach
  • Ammonia
  • Phenols
  • Formaldehyde
  • Phthalates
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Fabric softener sheets
  • Toilet bowl tablets

Instead of noxious cleaners, look for pet-friendly cleaning products or use natural items such as vinegar, lemon, and baking soda. If you do use regular cleaners, keep your pet in another room until the chemicals have completely dried and evaporated.

Menacing medications: Human drugs dangerous to pets

Many human medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, pose toxicity risks to our four-legged friends. Pain relievers, antidepressants, and cold medicines are a few examples that can seriously harm your pet if ingested. Always store medications securely and never administer your pet human medications without consulting your veterinarian.

Obstructive objects: Smalls items harmful to pets

Various household items can cause choking or intestinal blockages in pets. Since most pets are oh-so-willing to play with everything they encounter, small objects can be extremely hazardous. Pets commonly attempt to swallow:

  • Rubber bands
  • Hair ties
  • Coins
  • Batteries
  • Small toys
  • Keys
  • Fingernail clippers
  • Stringed objects, such as yard, thread, and dental floss
  • Paperclips
  • Push pins or tacks
  • Nails

Small items should be kept out of pets’ reach to prevent accidental ingestion or choking. Empty purses and bags on high counters inaccessible to pets, and keep floors free of small items. 

Prevention is key to avoiding household item emergencies for pets. Store potentially damaging items in cabinets, drawers, or secure areas your pet can’t access. Choose only non-toxic plants for your home and garden, and never feed your pet human food that may be toxic. Plus, ensure you keep the Pet Poison Helpline number handy in the event of accidental poisoning. 

As responsible pet owners, we must create a safe environment for our furry companions. Be aware of potential hazards and be proactive about minimizing risks of harming your furry pal and to ensure them a happy, healthy life. If you are concerned that your pet may have ingested a toxic substance, contact Smithtown Animal Hospital immediately or go directly to your nearest emergency clinic.