Pet Poison Control: Foods and Substances to Keep Away from Your Dog or Cat

Toxic to Pets: Everyday Hazards Hiding in Your Home

You step away from the kitchen for two minutes, and suddenly your dog is nose-deep in the garbage. Or maybe your cat decides your new houseplant looks like a tempting snack. As veterinarians at Trafalgar Animal Hospital in Oakville, ON, we see firsthand just how common accidental poisonings are—and how easily they can be prevented with a little awareness.

Poison control isn’t just about emergencies. It’s about knowing the risks before your pet finds them. From kitchen counters to holiday décor, here’s what every pet owner should know about the most common toxic foods, substances, and household dangers—and what to do if your pet gets into trouble.

Household Toxins: Where the Dangers Lurk

Pets don’t read labels, and many of the things we use every day—from medications to essential oils—can be harmful if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. The FDA outlines several household hazards that are frequently involved in pet poisoning cases.

Common Household Hazards:

• Human medications (NSAIDs, antidepressants, heart medications, and acetaminophen)
• Cleaning products (especially those with bleach or phenols)
• Essential oils, which can be toxic to cats and dogs when ingested or diffused in high concentrations. ASPCA’s guide is an excellent resource on this topic.
• Rodenticides, which may contain anticoagulants or neurotoxins. Learn more in this ASPCA alert.
• Marijuana or edibles, increasingly common as cannabis becomes more accessible. ASPCA News offers a clear breakdown of symptoms and risks.

Pets can absorb toxins through licking, chewing, inhalation, or contact with their skin or paws. Cats in particular are sensitive due to their grooming habits and unique metabolism.

The Kitchen: A Hot Spot for Trouble

Food toxicity is one of the most common reasons we see pets for urgent care. The tricky part? Many foods that are safe (and delicious) for us can be highly toxic to dogs and cats.

Foods to Keep Off the Menu:

If your pet consumes any of these, contact your vet immediately. You can also call the ASPCA Poison Control Center, which is available 24/7 to guide you through next steps.

Plants: Pretty But Problematic

Whether you’re a green thumb or just enjoy a potted peace lily, it’s important to know that many common houseplants are toxic to pets. Cats, in particular, are notorious for nibbling greenery—often with unfortunate results.

ASPCA’s Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants List is a must-have resource for any pet owner. Here are some top offenders:

• Lilies (extremely toxic to cats—even the pollen)
• Sago palm (severe liver toxicity in dogs and cats)
• Aloe vera
• Philodendron
• Tulip and daffodil bulbs

Even “safe” plants can cause gastrointestinal upset, so it’s always better to err on the side of caution.

Holiday Hazards: Decorations and Treats

From chocolate Santas to Easter lilies, the holidays bring seasonal dangers, too. The AVMA recommends keeping a close eye on:

• Tinsel and string (especially dangerous for cats if swallowed)
• Holiday food and drinks
• Candles and potpourri
• Decorative plants like mistletoe, holly, and poinsettias

These festive additions can quickly turn into medical emergencies if your pet decides to investigate—or snack.

Drug Toxicity: A Silent, Serious Threat

Pets are much more sensitive to medications than humans. Unfortunately, they’re also very good at sniffing out pill bottles that fall off the counter or chewing into a forgotten purse.

The Preventive Vet highlights common drugs that pose serious risks, including:

• Ibuprofen, naproxen (Advil, Aleve): Can cause stomach ulcers and kidney failure
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Especially dangerous for cats
• Antidepressants and ADHD medications: Affect the nervous and cardiovascular systems

Store all medications securely and never give your pet anything not specifically prescribed for them—even if it seems harmless.

Recognizing the Signs of Toxicity

Symptoms of poisoning vary widely based on the substance, but common warning signs include:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Lethargy or collapse
• Tremors or seizures
• Excessive drooling
• Difficulty breathing
• Pale gums or yellowing of the eyes (a sign of liver damage)

Cats may exhibit subtle changes, like hiding or reduced appetite. The ASPCA Pro guide lists key signs to watch for in feline toxic exposures.

What to Do if Your Pet Is Exposed

1. Stay calm. Panic delays treatment.
2. Remove the toxin (if visible or accessible).
3. Call us at Trafalgar Animal Hospital or reach out through our contact page.
4. Contact ASPCA Poison Control at 1-888-426-4435 for 24/7 expert guidance.
5. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed—some substances are more dangerous coming back up.

Time is critical. Let us know what your pet may have ingested, when, and how much. Bring packaging if possible.

Prevention Starts at Home

Many poisonings are preventable with a few practical changes. AAHA’s guide recommends:

• Storing food and medications in secure cabinets
• Keeping cleaning supplies out of reach
• Avoiding use of essential oil diffusers near cats
• Being mindful of what’s in reach of the counter-surfing dog

A quick scan of your home from your pet’s eye level can reveal dangers you hadn’t considered.

We’re Here When You Need Us

At Trafalgar Animal Hospital, we know that accidents happen—but prevention is powerful. Our team of experienced veterinarians is here to answer your questions, guide you in pet-proofing your home, and provide immediate care if your pet is exposed to a toxin.

Have questions about what’s safe and what’s not? Schedule a wellness visit or consult: contact us. Let’s keep your pets safe, healthy, and out of the emergency room.