Potential Household Toxins for Pets

Many everyday household items can be toxic to pets—some even fatal. Despite our best efforts to keep them safe, pets are naturally curious and may ingest harmful substances found in garbage cans, cupboards, purses, and other unexpected places. Toxic exposure is one of the most common reasons pets visit the emergency room at DoveLewis. Knowing which items pose a risk and keeping them out of reach is essential for every pet owner.

Common Toxic Items for Pets

Food & Drink

• Chocolate
• Alcohol
• Grapes and raisins
• Coffee, tea, and caffeinated drinks
• Uncooked yeast dough
• Xylitol (artificial sweetener)
• Onions and garlic
• Avocados
• Excessive salt intake
• Macadamia nuts
• Fatty foods

Flowers & Plants

• Lilies (Extremely toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure)
• Daffodils
• Azaleas
• Rhododendrons
• Tulips
• English ivy
• Hydrangea
• Rhubarb leaves
• Shamrock
• Certain mushrooms (Toxic species can cause severe illness or death)

To look up if a plant is toxic to your pet, click here.

Household & Decorative Items

• Fragrance products and liquid potpourri
• Mothballs
• Fertilizers, pesticides, and insecticides
• Rat poison, snail bait, and other rodenticides
• Antifreeze (Highly toxic, even in small amounts)
• Paint and adhesives (e.g., wood glue)
• Cleaning products (Keep pets away until surfaces are dry)
• Sunscreen and toothpaste (Some contain xylitol, which is toxic to pets)
• Soap and detergents

Medications & Drugs

Human medications are one of the leading causes of pet poisoning. Never give pets medication without veterinary guidance.

• Sleep aids
• Antidepressants
• Cold medicines
• Acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol—can cause liver damage in dogs and is toxic to cats)
• Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
• Vitamins and supplements (Some contain iron or other toxic ingredients)
• Prescription drugs (Both human and veterinary if ingested incorrectly)

Recreational & Narcotic Substances

• Marijuana (Can cause severe neurological effects in pets)

Preventing Pet Poisoning

• Store chemicals securely – Keep cleaning supplies, pesticides, and medications in pet-proof cabinets.
• Secure trash cans – Many pets become sick after rummaging through garbage.
• Read labels carefully – Ensure household products are pet-safe before use.
• Keep small objects out of reach – Pets can swallow coins, buttons, jewelry, screws, and children’s toys.
• Be mindful of lawns and gardens – Keep pets away from recently treated areas.

What to Do If Your Pet is Exposed to a Toxin

Accidents happen, and pets are naturally curious. If you’re ever unsure about a product, check the label and talk to your veterinarian. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control offers a valuable resource for identifying toxic substances.

Watch for warning signs like vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, breathing difficulties, lethargy, tremors, or seizures.

If you think your pet has ingested something toxic, act fast! DoveLewis is open 24/7 for emergency care—call (503) 228-7281 or bring your pet in immediately. You can also reach ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 for expert guidance.