Top Ten Pet Toxins:

 

1: Human Medications: Human medications are once again at the top of the list of pet toxins for 2010. Almost ¼ of the call volume at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control  (APCC) Center is about human medication ingested by pets. The most common culprits include over the counter medications (ibuprofen, acetaminophen), antidepressants and ADHD medications. Many times the pet accidentally ingested the medication when a pill was dropped on the floor.

 

2: Insecticides: About 20% of the calls to the APCC are about insecticides. Insecticides are commonly used on our pets for flea control and around our houses to control crawling and flying bugs. The most serious poisonings occurred when products not labeled for use in cats were applied to them. Always follow label directions.

 

3: Rodenticides: Baits used to kill mice and rats are mostly grain based. Not only does this attract rodents, but it also attracts dogs and cats. There are several different types of rodenticides that can cause seizures, internal bleeding or kidney failure. Always make sure these items are placed in areas that pets cannot access.

 

4: People Food: Xylitol, grapes, raisins, onions and garlic are commonly ingested by our pets. Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs, while onions and garlic can cause anemia if enough is ingested. Xylitol, a sugar alcohol used to sweeten sugar free gums and mints, can cause low blood sugar and liver failure in dogs. Always keep people food out of pets’ way.

 

5: Veterinary Medications: Many pet medications are flavored for ease of giving. Unfortunately, animals may ingest the entire bottle of medication if they find it tasty. Common chewable medications include arthritis and incontinence medications. Contact your vet if your pet ingests more than a proper dose of medication.

 

6: Chocolate: Chocolate contains methylxanthines which act as stimulants to our pets. The darker the chocolate the more methylxanthines it contains. Methylxanthines can cause agitation, vomiting, diarrhea, high heart rate, muscle tremors, seizures and death.

 

7: Household Toxins: Cleaning supplies, such as bleach, acids, alkalis and other detergents can cause corrosive injury to the mouth and stomach. Other household items such as batteries and liquid potpourri can cause similar problems. Always keep these toxins behind securely locked doors.

 

8: Plants: Both house plants and outdoor plants can be ingested by our pets. Lilies can cause life-threatening kidney failure in cats, while sago palms can cause liver failure in dogs and cats. Keep house plants and bouquests away from your pets.

 

9: Herbicides:  Many herbicides have a salty taste and our pets will commonly ingest them. Always follow label directions and keep pets off treated areas until they are dry.

 

10: Outdoor Toxins: Antifreeze, fertilizers and ice melts are all substances that animals can find outdoors. Keep these items in securely locked shed or up on shelves where pets cannot get to them.

 

If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, please contact Claremont Animal Hospital  at 603-543-0117 or the Animal Poison Control Center’s 24 hour hotline at 888-426-4435.

 

Source: ASPCA web site 2/3/11