(This article is from our friends at Olney-Sandy Spring Veterinary Hospital, MD.)
Understanding what potential harmful poisons exist in your home and yard is the first step to keeping your pet safe. With Spring upon us, lawn and garden care is on many peoples minds. Many plants and fertilizers are toxic to pets so use caution when adding new plants or applying products in your yard.
According to the Pet Poison Helpline, here are the top 10 poisons for dogs and cats that they get calls about.
Dog Poisons:
Chocolate
Mouse and Rat Poisons (rodenticides)
Anti-inflammatory medications
Xylitol (sugar-free gum & more)
Grapes & Raisins
Antidepressant Medications
Acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol)
Vitamin D Overdose
Stimulant Medications (e.g., for ADD/ADHD)
Fertilizers
Cat Poisons:
Lilies (Lilium species)
Spot-on flea/tick medication for dogs
Household Cleaners
Antidepressant Medications
Essential Oils
Anti-inflammatory Medications
Mouse & Rat Poisons (rodenticides)
Stimulant Medications (e.g., for ADD/ADHD)
Onions & Garlic
Vitamin D Overdose
We have a list of Poisonous Plants for you to download to keep on hand. You can also use the Pet Poison Helpline's search option to look up many different items to find out if they are toxic for your pet here. If you suspect your pet has ingested any of these items or any other questionable substance, call Pet Poison Helpline or your veterinarian for assistance. Accurate and timely identification of the suspected substance is very important. Having the container, package, or label in hand will save valuable time and may save the life of your pet.