Taking care of your pet means watching out for things that can hurt them, especially food and household items. Some things we eat or use every day can be dangerous or even deadly for dogs and cats. Knowing what to avoid can help you keep your furry friends safe.
First, let’s talk about foods that are toxic to both dogs and cats. Chocolate and anything with caffeine are very harmful. They contain chemicals like theobromine and caffeine that can make pets very sick. Your pet might vomit, have diarrhea, breathe fast, have a weird heartbeat, or even have seizures. Dark chocolate is the most dangerous. Grapes and raisins are also very bad for pets. They can cause kidney failure, and even small amounts can be deadly. Onions, garlic, chives, and leeks can damage your pet’s red blood cells, which might make them tired, weak, or short of breath. Garlic is especially bad for cats. Alcohol and raw dough can also make your pet very sick. Raw dough can puff up in their belly, and alcohol affects pets much faster than people. Lastly, xylitol, a sweetener found in sugar-free gum and some peanut butters, is very toxic. It can cause low blood sugar, liver failure, and even death.
Some foods are especially bad just for dogs. Macadamia nuts are one of them. They can cause weakness, swelling, shaking, and overheating. Avocados are another danger. They have a chemical called persin that can upset a dog’s stomach and cause vomiting or diarrhea. The pit is also a choking hazard.
Cats have their own list of dangerous foods. Raw eggs, meat, and bones can carry bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli, and bones can hurt their insides. Cooking food can help, but it’s better to stick with pet-safe meals. Also, even though your cat might snack on dog food sometimes, it’s not made for them and can cause malnutrition over time.
There are also household items that are dangerous to pets. Some plants, like lilies, are very toxic, especially to cats. Others like azaleas and sago palms can make pets very sick or even kill them. Medicine meant for humans, like ibuprofen or Tylenol, should never be given to pets. Even a small amount can cause ulcers, kidney problems, or worse.
To keep your pets safe, always store dangerous foods and items where they can’t reach them. Make sure everyone in your house knows not to give pets human food. Give your pets safe toys and treats to keep them busy, and take them to the vet for regular check-ups to catch any problems early.
If your pet eats something dangerous, act fast. Take it away from them and call your vet right away. Try to tell the vet what your pet ate, how much, and when. Don’t try to make your pet vomit unless the vet tells you to. Then, keep a close eye on your pet for any strange behavior.
Keeping your pets safe means staying alert and knowing what things to avoid. By watching what they eat and keeping harmful items out of reach, you’re helping them live a happy and healthy life.
🐾 If you think your pet has eaten something harmful or just want expert help, don’t wait—reach out to us at Doctor Hulk Veterinary Hospital today. You can click here to reach out.