Dr. Mindy March
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Common Hazards

 

  • Non-toxic substances for dogs and cats that may still cause mild GI upset in some animals:
  • Water based paints
  • Toilet bowl water
  • Silica get
  • Poinsettia
  • Cat litter
  • Glue traps
  • Glow jewelry
  • Christmas tree water

 

  • Foods to avoid feeding your pet:
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Avocado
  • Chocolate (all forms)
  • Coffee (all forms)
  • Fatty foods
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Moldy or spoiled foods
  • Onions, onion powder
  • Raisins and grapes
  • Salt
  • Yeast dough
  • Garlic
  • Products sweetened with xylitol

 

  • Warm Weather Hazards:
  • Animal toxins – toads, insects, spiders, snakes scorpions
  • Blue-green algae in ponds
  • Citronella
  • Cocoa mulch
  • Compost piles
  • Fertilizers
  • Certain flea products
  • Outdoor plants and plant bulbs
  • Swimming pool treatment supplies

 

  • Pesticide hazards: when using herbicides or insecticides in or around your home:
  • Always use pesticides in accordance with label instructions
  • Keep pets away from treated areas for the label recommended amount of time
  • Store unused products in areas that will always be inaccessible to pets
  • Be aware that fly baits containing methomyl and slug/snail baits containing metaldehyde are particularly dangerous

 

  • Medication precautions:
  • Keep all prescriptions and OTC drugs out of reach of your pets, preferably in closed cabinets (they will eat them)
  • Remind guests to store medications safely as well
  • Pain killers, cold medicines, anti-cancer drugs, antidepressants, vitamins and diet pills are common examples of human medication that can be potentially lethal, even in small dosages
  • ONE regular strength ibuprofen tablet (200mg) can cause stomach ulcers in a 10 pound dog and be potentially lethal to a cat

 

  • Cold weather hazards:
  • Antifreeze – MAJOR EMERGENCY!  CALL, THEN GET IN ASAP
  • Liquid potpourris – sever eye, mouth, skin damage
  • Ice melting products – very irritating to skin and mouth
  • Rat and mouse baits – MAJOR EMERGENCY!  CALL, THEN GET IN ASAP  (place these in areas inaccessible to your pets)

 

  • Christmas Tree Hazards:
  • Water may contain fertilizer, which, if ingested, can upset the stomach.  Stagnant tree water can be breeding grounds for bacteria also leading to vomiting nausea and diarrhea, if ingested
  • Electrical cords – avoid animal exposure to electrical cords.  If they are chewed, they could electrocute your pet.  Cover up or hide electrical cords and NEVER let you pet chew on them!
  • Ribbons or tinsel can become lodged in intestines and cause intestinal obstruction – a very common problem in cats/kittens
  • Batteries contain corrosives and if ingested, can cause ulceration to the mouth, tongue and the rest of the intestinal tract
  • Glass ornaments can cause internal laceration when ingested…they will sometimes do this – believe it or not.