March is National Pet Poison Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about common household hazards that can be harmful or even fatal to our beloved pets. As pet owners, it's our responsibility to educate ourselves on potential dangers and take proactive steps to keep our furry friends safe.
Common Household Hazards for Pets
Many everyday items found in homes can be toxic to dogs and cats. Some dangers change with the seasons, making it essential to stay vigilant year-round. Below are some of the most common hazards:
Medications
Both human and pet medications can be extremely dangerous if ingested in excessive amounts or without veterinary supervision. Some of the most harmful include:
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Ibuprofen
Blood pressure medications
Vitamin D supplements
Recreational drugs such as marijuana
Toxic Foods
While some human foods are safe for pets, many can be toxic. Keep these off your pet’s plate:
Avocado
Grapes & Raisins
Onions & Garlic
Chocolate
Xylitol (a sugar substitute found in peanut butter and sugar-free gum)
Macadamia nuts
Alcohol
Household Products
Common cleaning supplies and chemicals pose a significant risk to pets. Some toxic household products include:
Bleach
Disinfectants
Essential oils
Cold & flu medications
Poisonous Plant
Some houseplants and garden flowers can be dangerous if ingested. Watch out for:
Lilies (highly toxic to cats!)
Tulips
Daffodils
Oleander
Outdoor Hazards
Yard treatments and pest control products can be deadly to pets. Be cautious with:
Rat poison
Herbicides
Pesticides
Fertilizers
Birdseed (can contain toxic mold or pesticides)
Signs of Poisoning in Pets
If you notice any of the following symptoms, seek veterinary help immediately:
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Lethargy
Disorientation
Seizures
Unsteadiness
Muscle twitching
Safe Foods for Pets
While many foods are toxic, there are plenty of safe and healthy options you can share with your pets in moderation.
Safe Foods for Dogs:
Apple
Banana
Blueberries
Mango
Cucumber
Watermelon
Pumpkin
Carrot
Green beans
Plain yogurt
Peanuts (unsalted, unflavored)
Peanut butter (Xylitol-free)
Celery
White rice
Cauliflower
Cooked eggs
Cooked fish
Cooked beef
Cooked turkey
Cooked chicken
Safe Foods for Cats:
Broccoli
Carrots
Bananas
Seedless watermelon
Zucchini/Squash
Cucumber (no seeds)
Asparagus
Small amounts of cheese
Plain yogurt
Skinless sweet potato
Polenta
Oats
Peas
Low-sodium broth (onion & garlic-free)
Boiled eggs
Lamb
Cooked beef
Cooked poultry
Liver
What to Do If Your Pet is Poisoned
If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic substance:
Contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately.
Do not induce vomiting unless explicitly instructed by a professional.
Gather information about what your pet may have ingested, how much, and when.
Be prepared to provide details to your vet or poison control specialist.
Emergency Resources
Pet Poison Helpline: Available 24/7 for poisoning emergencies.
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC): Call (888) 426-4435 for immediate assistance. Learn more at ASPCA Animal Poison Control.
AKC Poison Prevention for Pets: Additional safety tips and guidelines at AKC Poison Prevention.
Stay Informed and Be Prepared
National Pet Poison Prevention Month serves as a reminder to pet owners to be proactive about their pets' safety. By educating yourself on potential hazards, keeping toxic substances out of reach, and knowing what to do in an emergency, you can help ensure your pets live a long, healthy, and safe life.
Check out the infographics below for a quick reference on pet-safe foods and common toxins for dogs and cats!
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