Household Toxins for Pets

Cleaning solutions, antifreeze, fragrance sprays and other common household chemicals are often stored under sinks or on garage shelves where pets can gain easy access. Be sure there is adequate ventilation when using any chemicals, thoroughly wipe up any spills, tightly close any bottles or containers and stow them safely in cabinets that pets cannot pry open.

Keep the following toxic household chemicals out of reach from your pets:

• Acids (such as drain and toilet cleaners)
• Alkalis (such as ammonia, lye and some types of drain and toilet cleaners)
• Batteries
• Bleach
• Enzymatic cleaners (used for breaking down proteins and organic matter)
• Fabric softeners
• Glow jewelry
• Ice melt products that contain sodium or salt-like ingredients
• Liquid potpourri
• Mothballs
• Paint solvents and lacquers
• Paint balls
• Pine oil/essential oils
• Solvents (such as cleaners used to remove oil, grease and grime)
• Teflon^®-coated cookware (birds only—see “Inhaled Poisons”)

Non-Ingested Poisons

Poisons aren’t always ingested; some can be inhaled or even absorbed through the skin. Protect your pet by being aware of these common pet health hazards.

Inhaled Poisons

Carbon monoxide, smoke and chemical fumes are all forms of inhaled poisons. Exposure can result in coughing, disorientation or unconsciousness. If your pet has inhaled any sort of airborne toxin, move him to fresh air immediately and contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline.*

Before an inhalation emergency occurs, install carbon monoxide and smoke detectors in each room of your house, and be sure to change the batteries every six months.

When using products that emit vapors— such as paint or cleaning solutions—be sure there is adequate ventilation in the room. Also, consider learning pet CPR; ask your veterinarian or local community center if a pet first aid class is available.

If you have a bird, never use Tefloncoated pots and pans, as they emit polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) fumes when overheated, which are fatal to our avian friends if inhaled. Alternative non-stick cookware options that do not contain PTFE are available in many kitchen supply stores.

Absorbed Poisons

Poisons and toxins can enter the body through the skin. Commonly absorbed poisons include strong acids/alkalis (such as ammonia, lye and some types of drain and toilet cleaners) and topical insecticides.

Examples of this include canine spot-on flea products that are applied to cats or concentrated tea tree oil applied to both dogs and cats. Signs range from skin irritation to difficulty walking/balancing, tremors and seizures.

When outdoors, be aware of any chemicals used by neighbors or maintenance crews, like fertilizers or pesticides. Use soap and water to thoroughly clean your pet’s belly, legs and feet in order to get rid of any chemical residue that could be absorbed, licked or rubbed onto bedding. Ice melt products are of particular concern in the winter; the salt crystals can stick to pets’ feet, causing skin irritation and discomfort.

*A fee is billed by Pet Poison Helpline. PPH is not affiliated with VPI Pet Insurance.

Garden Dangers for Pets, Top 10 Pet Toxins, Toxic Food for Pets, Toxic Meds for Pets, Toxic Plants for Pets, You Think Your Pet's Been Poisoned: Now What?

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