Our homes feel safe to us, but to pets—especially curious puppies, kittens, birds, and exotic pets—they can be full of hidden hazards. Awareness is the first step in keeping your pets safe and healthy.
Below are some of the most common household dangers we discuss with clients, along with tips to reduce risk.
Many foods that are safe for people can be extremely dangerous for pets.
Common toxic foods include:
Veterinary tip: Keep human food secured, remind guests not to feed pets table scraps, and check ingredient labels carefully.
Prescription and over-the-counter medications are a frequent cause of pet poisoning.
High-risk items include:
Veterinary tip: Never give a pet medication without veterinary guidance, even if the dose seems small.
Pets can be exposed through ingestion, skin contact, or inhalation.
Watch out for:
Veterinary tip: Store products in locked cabinets and keep pets away from freshly cleaned or treated areas.
Many common houseplants and bouquets are toxic to pets.
Examples include:
Veterinary tip: Research plants before bringing them into your home and assume outdoor plants may also pose a risk.
Curious pets often explore with their mouths.
Common hazards:
Veterinary tip: Intestinal blockages often require surgery—keeping small items out of reach can prevent major emergencies.
Veterinary tip: Use cord protectors and never leave open flames unattended around pets.
Veterinary tip: Secure screens and supervise pets closely in high-risk areas.
Garbage often contains food scraps, bones, wrappers, and moldy items that can cause toxicity or obstruction.
Veterinary tip: Use pet-proof trash cans and keep compost bins inaccessible.
Some essential oils and diffusers can be harmful, particularly to cats and birds.
Veterinary tip: Avoid diffusers in enclosed spaces and never apply essential oils directly to pets unless directed by a veterinarian.
Veterinary tip: Seasonal spikes in emergencies are common—extra vigilance during holidays can save lives.
If you suspect your pet has ingested something harmful, contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic immediately. Early treatment can be lifesaving.
If you believe your pet has ingested something toxic, you can also contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center for immediate guidance:
Phone: 888-426-4435
A consultation fee may apply, but their toxicology experts are available 24/7 and work closely with veterinarians to provide lifesaving recommendations.
Most household dangers are preventable with a little planning and awareness. Pet-proofing your home is just as important as child-proofing—and it evolves as your pet grows and changes. If you ever have questions about a product, food, or plant, don’t hesitate to ask your veterinary team.
Your home should be a safe place for every member of the family—paws, scales, feathers, and all.
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