Keep out of reach of PETS

  By Dr. Scott Carter, MVVC

Pets, often times with their curiosity, can get into places or things that we may not suspect possible.  This is especially true with puppies.  Pet-proofing your house as you would for children may not be a bad idea. 

Rat and mouse bait is by far the most common toxicity we see at our clinic.  The greatest difficulty is that it may be in the barn, the neighbor’s yard, or just unnoticed or forgotten in the environment.  Most rat poisons affect blood clotting, but others can cause calcification of internal organs, or swelling of the brain.  It can take up to 4 days after eating it before the animal will show any signs.  By that time it may be too late.  Time is very important if a toxin is expected because more gets absorbed over time.  If rat poison is suspected, call a veterinarian immediately.  Making the dog vomit is also important.  Something at home that works well is hydrogen peroxide—2-4 tablespoons will usually do the job.  If toxic compounds are eaten, activated charcoal may be necessary to bind toxins inside the stomach and intestinal tract.

Chocolate is common through the holidays and is well liked by pets and their owners.  Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which can be toxic and cause death if sufficient amounts are eaten.  Milk chocolate contains less toxic compounds, while baker’s chocolate has the most.  That’s not all-- chocolate is high in fat and that can lead to intestinal disruptions with vomiting, diarrhea, and in more severe cases, pancreatitis.

Antifreeze is another compound that is extremely toxic and can be fatal especially in cats.  As the body breaks down the antifreeze, the toxic compound produced will destroy the kidneys and death ensues.  One of the biggest problems with this is that antifreeze has a sweet taste to it, which encourages them to drink it.  Make sure that all containers are safely stored and secured with lids and that old antifreeze is properly recycled.  Also, check under vehicles for leaks.

Cats are seen more often for chewing on houseplants, but this can also be seen with dogs.  Depending on the plant, signs can vary from none, to vomiting and diarrhea, seizures, and in some cases, death.  Poinsettias will cause vomiting and diarrhea, depending on the amount ingested.  Easter lilies, which will soon be here, can cause kidney failure especially in cats.

Cats are more susceptible to lawn sprays, either for bugs or weeds.  This is probably because they are closer to the ground and have more skin contact.  Usually their neurologic system is affected, and signs can range from tremors to severe seizures.

Other things that can be harmful if given are acetaminophen and ibuprofen.  These may be helpful in people, but can cause illness in dogs and especially cats.  Sometimes owners accidentally drop their own prescription pills and the dog eats it, so be extra careful with your own medications. 

Household cleaners are very toxic to pets and people and should be stored in safe places.