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You love your pet, and you know that whether you have a dog or a cat, they are curious and often clever. If your pet finds something they think they can eat, they will likely try to break into it. Unfortunately, many everyday items prove dangerous, so read on to learn what might harm your beloved furry friend to avoid a trip to the animal hospital.

5 Household Items That Are Dangerous to Pets

1. Household Products

Batteries, glue, detergents, and cleaners are a few things that can be dangerous to your pet. Shiny items, like tinsel, or light-up toys, like glow sticks, are hazardous if ingested. If you notice them chewing on any of these items, contact your local animal hospital immediately. Symptoms often vary with these products but watch out for pawing or scratching at their mouth, excessive drooling, diarrhea, or vomiting.

2. Pesticides & Antifreeze

Many kinds of insecticides you have in your cupboards are poisonous from both ingestion and topical exposure. If you find any on your pet, rinse it off with a mild dish soap right away and call your veterinarian to find out the risks. Automotive fluids, such as antifreeze, are extremely fatal to cats and dogs, so keep them in a sealed area. Common symptoms include seizures, dilated pupils, vomiting, and diarrhea. Ingestion can be fatal, so it’s important you act fast. Take them to an animal hospital in an emergency.

3. Medication

Animal hospitalBoth prescription and over-the-counter medications, including antidepressants, ADHD medication, acetaminophen, and aspirin, are harmful when consumed. Keep medications in a locked cupboard or in sealed container your pet can’t access. Acetaminophen is especially dangerous for cats, so if eaten, take your cat to the animal hospital promptly.

4. Indoor & Outdoor Plants

Some plants can be noxious and possibly deadly, so it’s helpful to know what kinds are dangerous. Various types of flowers, such as daffodils, tulips, amaryllis, and rhododendrons, can be toxic. Lilies, in particular, can cause kidney failures in cats if ingested.

5. Your Food

Foods such as chocolate, onions, grapes, raisins, nuts, citrus fruits, and anything containing xylitol are not meant for animal consumption. Depending on the amount consumed, keep an eye on your pet for symptoms of distress, such as an upset stomach. If your pet consumed a large amount of a dangerous food, a trip to the animal hospital is warranted, as the result can be seizures, heart disease, kidney failure, and even death.

 

Dells Animal Hospital in Wisconsin has a team of animal care experts with over 50 years of experience. They offer services including pet care, grooming, and nutritional advice, as well as specialized veterinary services, including tight rope surgeries and dental digital X-rays. Give them a call at (608) 235-7301 or visit their website to schedule an appointment.

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