24/08/2026
Pet Poisoning: What Every Pet Owner Should Know
Many everyday household products, foods, medications and plants can be harmful to pets. Some toxins can cause serious illness even in small amounts, and signs of poisoning may develop within minutes or may take several days to appear.
Common Household Poisons
Keep your pet away from:
- Antifreeze
- Ammonia
- Bleach and bleach-based cleaners
- Carpet cleaners
- Essential oils
- Plant fertilisers
- Glue and adhesives
- Paint
- Rat, mouse and slug baits
- Window cleaners
Toxic Foods
Some foods that are safe for people can be dangerous for pets, including:
- Alcohol
- Caffeine and coffee
- Lollies, particularly those containing xylitol or other sugar substitutes
- Chocolate
- Garlic
- Grapes and raisins
- Macadamia nuts
- Onions
- Raw yeast dough
- Walnuts
Common Human Medications
Never give your pet human medication unless specifically instructed by a veterinarian. Potentially toxic medications include:
- ADD/ADHD medications, such as Ritalin
- Allergy and decongestant medications
- Antidepressants
- Blood pressure medications
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Advil
- Sleep aids
Toxic Plants
Be aware that some common indoor and garden plants can be poisonous to pets, including:
- Aloe vera
- Chrysanthemums
- Daffodils
- Daisies
- English ivy
- Hyacinths
- Lilies
- Marijuana/cannabis
- Poinsettias
- Sago palms
- Tulips
Important: Lilies can be particularly dangerous to cats. Even seemingly small exposures can require urgent veterinary attention.
Signs of Poisoning
Signs can vary depending on the substance involved and the amount consumed. Possible symptoms include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Loss of appetite
- Weakness or collapse
- Tremors or seizures
- Difficulty breathing
- Pale or blue gums
- Increased thirst or urination
- Agitation or unusual behaviour
- Unsteady walking
- Coma
Do not wait for symptoms to appear if you suspect your pet has been poisoned. Some toxins can cause serious internal damage before obvious signs develop.
What to Do If You Suspect Poisoning
If you think your pet has been exposed to a toxic substance:
1. Remove the toxin from your pet's reach or move your pet away from the source if it is safe to do so.
2. Identify the substance and keep the packaging, label or container if possible.
3. Estimate how much may have been consumed and when the exposure occurred.
4. Contact us immediately for advice.
5. Follow our instructions carefully while arranging veterinary care.
Do not induce vomiting or give your pet food, milk or medication unless a veterinarian specifically tells you to do so.
Preventing Pet Poisoning
You can help protect your pet by:
- Storing medications and household chemicals securely and out of reach.
- Keeping toxic foods away from pets.
- Researching plants before bringing them into your home or garden.
- Using pet-safe pest-control products.
- Supervising pets, particularly outdoors.
- Keeping products in their original, clearly labelled containers.
- Never assuming a product is safe simply because it is labelled “natural.”
If You Suspect Poisoning
Please contact us immediately if you believe your pet has been poisoned or has ingested a potentially toxic substance.
