Spring cleaning supplies, garden products, holiday candy and new houseplants all increase the chances that a curious pet will eat something they should not. Knowing what to do in advance can help you act quickly and calmly. This guide covers general steps; your veterinarian or a poison control professional will give advice specific to your situation.
Step one: keep your pet safe
Move your pet away from the source. Remove any remaining product, plant or food from reach, and keep other pets away too. If your pet is having trouble breathing, has collapsed, is having a seizure or is unresponsive, go to the nearest veterinary emergency clinic right away and call on the way if you can.
Step two: gather information
Quickly collect details that will help professionals assess the situation:
- What your pet ate or was exposed to, with the packaging, label or a photo of the plant
- How much may be missing
- When it happened, as best you know
- Your pet’s species, approximate weight, age and any health conditions or medications
- Any signs you have noticed, such as vomiting, drooling, tremors or weakness
Step three: call for help
Contact your veterinarian, an emergency veterinary hospital or an animal poison control service. In the United States, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center and Pet Poison Helpline both offer phone consultations staffed by veterinary professionals; a consultation fee may apply. Save their numbers in your phone and your pet first-aid kit today so you are not searching during an emergency.
Call even if your pet seems fine. Some toxins, such as those in lilies, xylitol, antifreeze or certain rodent baits, may not cause obvious signs right away, and early treatment can matter a great deal.
What not to do
- Do not induce vomiting on your own. Vomiting can be harmful with some substances, such as corrosives or petroleum products, and it is not recommended for some animals or conditions. Only induce vomiting if a veterinarian or poison control professional specifically tells you to and explains how.
- Do not give home remedies such as milk, oil, salt or food unless directed. These can make things worse.
- Do not give human medications to treat symptoms.
- Do not wait and see if you know your pet ate something dangerous.
If the exposure is on the skin or fur, ask the professional how to clean it. Some products need specific washing instructions, and you should protect yourself with gloves.
Prevention
Store medications, cleaners, garden products and pest baits in closed cabinets. Keep purses and bags off the floor, since they often contain gum, medications and other hazards. Check plants before bringing them home. Secure trash cans. A few habits can prevent most accidental poisonings.
This article is general information only. In any suspected poisoning, contact a veterinary professional right away.
