Everyday Items That Can Be Toxic to Pets

Many everyday household items can be toxic to pets, and some can even be fatal. Even in the most attentive homes, accidents happen. Pets are naturally curious and may chew, lick, or swallow substances they find in garbage cans, cupboards, purses, backpacks, or on kitchen counters. In a matter of seconds, an ordinary moment can turn into a medical emergency.

At DoveLewis, toxic exposure is one of the most common reasons pets are brought to our emergency room. Knowing which items pose a risk and keeping them safely out of reach is one of the most important steps pet owners can take to protect their animals.

Common Toxic Items for Pets

Food & Drink

Many foods that are safe for people can cause serious illness in pets.

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

Flowers & Plants

Certain plants can cause vomiting, organ damage, or even death in pets.

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

To check whether a plant is toxic to your pet, you can search the ASPCA plant database.

Household & Decorative Items

Many common household products contain chemicals that can irritate a pet’s digestive system, damage organs, or cause neurological symptoms.

• 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, such as wood glue
• Cleaning products (keep pets away until surfaces are dry)
• Sunscreen and toothpaste (some contain xylitol)
• Soap and detergents

Medications & Drugs

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

Common examples include:

• Sleep aids
• Antidepressants
• Cold and flu medications
• Acetaminophen (for example, Tylenol is toxic to cats and can cause liver damage in dogs)
• Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen
• Vitamins and supplements (some contain iron or other toxic ingredients)
• Prescription medications, both human and veterinary, if ingested incorrectly

Recreational Substances

• Marijuana (can cause severe neurological effects in pets)

How to Help Prevent Pet Poisoning

While it is impossible to remove every risk, a few simple precautions can greatly reduce the chance of accidental poisoning.

• Store hazardous items securely. Keep medications, cleaning products, and chemicals in closed cabinets or containers.
• Secure trash cans. Pets often become sick after rummaging through garbage.
• Read labels carefully. Confirm that household products are safe to use around pets.
• Be mindful in the yard or garden. Keep pets away from areas recently treated with fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides.

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 valuable resources for identifying toxic substances.

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

If you think your pet may have ingested something toxic, act quickly. DoveLewis is open 24/7 for emergency care. Call (503) 228-7281 or bring your pet in immediately. You can also contact ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 for expert guidance.