Pet owners’ paramount concerns involve their furry pals’ safety and welfare. Unfortunately, the world is rife with pet perils, including those seemingly innocent items people use daily. You may believe your home is a comfortable and loving haven, but did you know many household items are dangerous to your pet? Our Cedar Creek Pet Hospital team discusses items in your home—from innocuous everyday objects to common products—that can harm your pet.

Cleaning day disaster: Pet-toxic household cleaners

A clean home is a happy home, but only sometimes. Several household cleaners meant to disinfect homes pose toxicity dangers to cats, dogs, birds, and other pets. Cleaning products that are unsafe for pets include:

  • Bleach
  • Ammonia
  • Chlorine
  • Phthalates (fragrance)
  • Formaldehyde 
  • Glycol ethers 
  • 1,4-Dioxane

Ensure that cleaning products are securely stored out of your pet’s reach, and opt for pet-safe cleaning alternatives whenever possible. You can also use pet- and environmentally-friendly products, including:

  • Baking soda
  • Distilled vinegar
  • Lemon juice
  • Olive oil as a wood polish

Med alert: Human medications and your pet

Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications are linked to thousands of pet poisonings yearly, which isn’t surprising since they are plentiful and small enough for pets to ingest. Medicines intended for humans can be hazardous for pets if ingested. Keep all medications securely stored in lockable cabinets or drawers, avoid leaving them on the bedside or other low tables, and never administer any medication to your pet without consulting our team first.

Fearful foods: Edible items can harm pets

Food is another common reason for pet poisonings because if a food tastes good to you, why can’t your pet have it too? Unfortunately, several delicious foods for people are toxic to pets. Keep your furry pal safe, and do not give them people food before determining whether it is safe for pets. Common food items that are toxic to pets include:

  • Chocolate
  • Alcohol
  • Caffeine 
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Onions and garlic
  • Bread dough
  • Avocado
  • Fruit pits
  • Xylitol (a sugar substitute)

Hazardous houseplants: Plants that are poisonous to pets

Ah, the beauty of flowers, a robust garden, a verdant lawn, and lush plants. Something is to be said for the benefits of living plants, but use caution around your pet because certain plants are toxic. Avoid these plants that can harm your furry pal:

  • Lilies (extremely toxic to cats)
  • Philodendrons
  • Aloe vera
  • Sago palm
  • Autumn crocus
  • Ivy
  • Poinsettias
  • Oleander
  • Tulip and narcissus bulbs
  • Azaleas

Do your research before buying a new houseplant, and opt for pet-safe options. You can consult the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) list of toxic and non-toxic plants for information on beautifying your home and yard while keeping your pet safe.

Staying aware of household hazards helps you ensure you are providing a safe environment for your pet. Remember to pet-proof your home just as you would child-proof it, because your pet is as curious as a toddler. Schedule your furry pal’s appointment with our Cedar Creek Pet Hospital team. Call immediately if you suspect your pet has gotten into something dangerous.