A lot of what is harmless to us can be poison to a dog or a cat. And it is often the most ordinary things from the kitchen or the windowsill. Let's go through the main things to keep out of your pet's reach, and what to do if they eat something anyway.
Foods that are dangerous for dogs
Keep these well away from your dog: chocolate and cocoa, grapes and raisins, onions and garlic, xylitol (a sweetener in gum and baked goods), alcohol, coffee, macadamia nuts, and raw yeast dough. Even a small amount of some of these can cause serious poisoning.
Foods that are dangerous for cats
Cats are especially sensitive to onion and garlic, chocolate, alcohol and caffeine. Many cats do not tolerate milk, contrary to the stereotype. Large amounts of raw fish and cooked bones are off the menu too.
Toxic house and garden plants
Lilies are extremely dangerous for cats: even the pollen can cause kidney failure. Be careful too with dieffenbachia, peace lily, azalea, and tulip and daffodil bulbs. Dogs chew plants less often, but puppies try everything.
Household chemicals and medicines
Human medicines (paracetamol, ibuprofen), insect treatments, antifreeze and cleaning liquids are deadly. Store them in closed cupboards your pet cannot reach, and never give human painkillers yourself, as our guide on what you can give a dog for pain explains.
Signs of poisoning
Be alert if you see vomiting or diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy or, conversely, agitation, trembling, refusing food, or problems with coordination. If you suspect poisoning, do not wait, call the vet.
What to do if your pet eats something
Do not try to make your pet vomit without a vet's instruction, as this is dangerous with some substances. Remove what is left, note down what and how much was eaten, and contact your vet or an emergency vet straight away. It helps to have a pet first aid kit ready before you ever need it, the same way you plan ahead for summer heat safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much chocolate is dangerous for a dog? It depends on the dog's weight and the type of chocolate (dark is more dangerous). Any amount is a reason to call the vet.
Is it true that lilies are dangerous for cats? Yes, lilies are extremely toxic to cats, up to kidney failure. It is best not to keep them at home at all.
What should I do first if my pet is poisoned? Remove the source, write down what was eaten, and contact a vet immediately.
While you are at work, a vetted sitter can keep an eye on your pet and spot trouble in time. Book a visit in the Flat4Pet app.
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