A Vet in West Allis Sounds Off on Three Common Yet Unexpected Pet Poisons

Because of the World Wide Web, cat and dog owners are more knowledgeable about looking after their companions than ever before. Naturally, having a plethora of information at your fingertips makes it a lot easier to comprehend your cat or dog. Despite this, though, countless animal owners are unaware many common products could hurt their pets. You probably know to store medications and chocolate where your pet can't get to them, but many seemingly safe items could very well be equally hazardous. With this month being National Pet Poison Prevention Month, now is a fantastic opportunity to expand your knowledge about common household poisons. Please read on to learn about a couple of items you may not recognize could hurt your beloved pet.

1. Xylitol

You might not recognize xylitol by its name, but you most likely have it in your home. It is an increasingly common synthetic sweetener used in sugar-free foods and snacks, most commonly chewing gum and candy. However, it’s not very sweet for dogs and cats. When eaten, xylitol may cause a serious drop in blood sugar levels and irreversible liver damage. With food manufacturers using this ingredient more frequently, it is showing up in new foods and snacks constantly. Xylitol is even found in some varieties of peanut butter. Be sure to read labels before giving your feline friend or canine companion human food! 

2. Grapes and Raisins

You and your kids may enjoy snacking on raisins and grapes, but they're unsafe for pets. Scientists aren't quite certain what makes these fruits are so dangerous to pets, but even ingesting a few raisins or grapes may cause renal failure. 

3. Indoor Plants

If you have an indoor plant collection, keep them away from your pet. A lot of popular indoor plants are toxic to pets and could cause problems ranging from minor nausea to severe organ damage and, in some cases, death. Snake plants, aloe, dracaena, and philodendrons are just a few of the houseplants that are known to harm companion animals. 

What to Do If Your Cat or Dog Ingests a Toxin

If you ever have any reason to think your four-legged family member may have consumed or been exposed to a toxic/poisonous substance, seek assistance immediately. Your pet requires an evaluation even if they have no apparent symptoms. For additional information, get in touch with the Pet Poison Helpline. 

When your dog or cat needs a veterinarian in West Allis, choose Spirit of 76th Veterinary Clinic. Our caring team provides both preventative care and treatment for illnesses and will help your furry friend in any way possible. To find out more or make an appointment, contact us today.