Animal Poisons Helpline (2025)

13/07/2025

Privet berries, produced by plants in the Ligustrum genus, start off green and ripen to a dull purple colour as they mature. Typically fruiting during autumn and winter, privets are common garden and landscaping plants, grown for their glossy green leaves and attractive flowers. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, appearing in clusters that create a pretty display.

Privets contain a chemical called oleanolic acid, which is responsible for the toxic effects seen following ingestion of the plant. Pets that ingest any part of the plant (most commonly the berries) can develop gastrointestinal upset, with common signs including vomiting, diarrhoea, reduced appetite and abdominal pain. In more severe cases, following large ingestions animals may become unsteady on their feet, weak and develop increased heart and breathing rates.

To help prevent accidental poisoning from Privets and other toxic plants:

✅ Regularly clean up any fallen berries to stop pets from eating them.

✅ Keep a close eye on your pets when walking in areas where toxic berries may be present.

✅ Consider fencing off berry-producing bushes or trees to keep pets away.

✅ Pet proof your garden by removing highly toxic plant species where possible.

If your pet has ingested something they should not have, you can phone the Animal Poisons Helpline for rapid, up to date advice. The Animal Poisons Helpline provides expert advice to pet owners 24/7 and can be reached on ☎️1300 869 738 (AU), 0800 869 738 (NZ), 3106 4216 (SG), (917) 722-5958 (US) or +1917-722-5958 (CAN).

If you are a member of a veterinary team, you can join the Animal Poisons Centre For Vets Facebook group which is regularly updated with toxicology tidbits and poisoning trends. To stay up to date with the latest pet poison alerts and receive updates directly to your inbox, visit animalpoisons.com.au/stay-up-to-date and subscribe.

26/06/2025

Mothballs are sometimes used in wardrobes, storage areas and suitcases to deter moths and other insects. Whilst they may be effective for protecting clothing and other fabrics, mothballs pose a significant poisoning risk to pets. The Animal Poisons Helpline receives calls every year regarding curious dogs and cats that have chewed on or ingested mothballs.

There are three common active ingredients found in mothballs; camphor, naphthalene and paradichlorobenzene. Each of these substances can be toxic to pets. Pets may be exposed by eating mothballs directly or by breathing vapours in poorly ventilated spaces. Whilst poisonings are relatively rare, even small exposures can potentially result in severe effects.

Camphor, used in some older or imported mothballs, can cause rapid onset signs such as drooling, vomiting, tremors and seizures. Pets that ingest naphthalene can develop vomiting, lethargy, diarrhoea, and in severe cases seizures and red blood cell damage. Cats are particularly sensitive to naphthalene and exposure can be life-threatening without urgent treatment. Paradichlorobenzene is less toxic but can still be dangerous.

To reduce the risk of mothball poisoning in pets:

✅ Avoid using loose mothballs in areas accessible to pets, including wardrobes, garages and storage containers.

✅ Check ingredient labels and dispose of old or unlabelled mothballs safely.

✅ Opt for pet-safe alternatives, such as cedar blocks or sealed garment bags when storing clothes.

✅ Keep pets away from freshly treated items and ensure good ventilation if using these products indoors.

If your pet has ingested any type of mothball, it is important to immediately phone the Animal Poisons Helpline or your veterinarian, even if they look well. The Animal Poisons Helpline provides expert advice to pet owners and can be reached on ☎️1300 869 738 (AU), 0800 869 738 (NZ), 3106 4216 (SG), (917) 722-5958 (US) or +1917-722-5958 (CAN).

If you are a member of a veterinary team you can also join the Animal Poisons Centre For Vets Facebook group which is regularly updated with toxicology tidbits and poisoning trends. To stay up to date with the latest pet poison alerts and receive updates directly to your inbox, visit animalpoisons.com.au/stay-up-to-date and subscribe.

16/06/2025

🐾 A big thank you to Simply Seaweed for becoming an Animal Poisons Helpline Business Supporter for 2025–2026! 🌿 Their generous support helps us continue providing expert toxicology advice to pet owners across Australia, 24/7.

Simply Seaweed is a passionate, pet-focused company known for their all-natural dental health supplement made from Ascophyllum nodosum - a type of seaweed that has been researched for its potential to support oral health in cats and dogs. The team at Simply Seaweed are committed to giving back, having supported many animal-related charities. We’re especially grateful for their recent fundraising efforts at the Perth Oz Feline Fair, where they helped raise awareness and funds for the Animal Poisons Helpline. You can check out their range at www.simplyseaweed.com.au 🐶🐱

24/05/2025

Engine oil, also known as motor oil, is a lubricant used in engines to reduce friction and wear. It is a common household automotive product that poses a risk to curious pets, with the Helpline frequently receiving calls about pets that have licked or walked through oil spills, particularly during DIY car maintenance.

Ingestion of small amounts of engine oil may cause gastrointestinal upset including drooling, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Skin contact may cause irritation or inflammation, especially with prolonged exposure. Long-haired pets are particularly vulnerable, as oil can be difficult to remove without thorough bathing. In some cases, aspiration of oil into the lungs during or after ingestion can result in aspiration pneumonia, a serious condition that requires urgent veterinary attention.

Pet owners should also be mindful of engine coolant (antifreeze), which may be drained into the same container as used engine oil during vehicle servicing. Ethylene glycol-based engine coolants are highly toxic and can cause severe kidney damage or death if not treated promptly. To help keep pets safe around automotive products:

✅ Store engine oil, coolant, and other vehicle fluids in sealed, clearly labelled containers out of reach of pets.

✅ Clean up any spills promptly and dispose of used oil and coolant safely through designated collection facilities.

✅ Prevent pets from accessing garages or driveways during vehicle maintenance.

If your pet has ingested or come into contact with engine oil, phone the Animal Poisons Helpline for advice even if your pet looks well. The Animal Poisons Helpline provides expert advice to pet owners and can be reached on:

📞 Australia: 1300 869 738
📞 New Zealand: 0800 869 738
📞 Singapore: 3106 4216
📞 United States: (917) 722-5958
📞 Canada: +1917-722-5958

To stay up to date with the latest pet poison alerts and receive updates directly to your inbox, visit animalpoisons.com.au/stay-up-to-date and subscribe.

24/05/2025

Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) is a popular ornamental plant prized for its perfumed, bell-shaped white flowers. Whilst beautiful, this plant poses a serious poisoning risk to pets.

All parts of the Lily of the Valley plant are toxic, including the flowers, leaves and stems. The plant contains toxins known as cardiac glycosides, which interfere with the normal electrical activity of the heart. These toxins are similar to digoxin, a medication used in both human and veterinary medicine to treat heart conditions. Due to its high concentration of toxins, caution is recommended when this plant is present around pets.

Although pet poisoning from this plant is not commonly reported, it can occur following relatively small ingestions. Pets may be exposed when chewing on garden plants, biting into bouquets, or drinking from vases containing the flowers. Because of the potency of these cardiac glycosides, even a small nibble has the potential to result in harmful effects.

Early signs of poisoning may include drooling, refusal to eat or drink, vomiting (in those animals that can vomit) and diarrhoea. As poisoning progresses, animals may become weak, lethargic and unsteady on their feet. In severe cases, poisoning may affect the heart's rhythm, resulting in a slow, fast, or irregular heartbeat, collapse, or even death. Signs can occur within a few hours of ingestion, and the severity will depend on the amount consumed and the size of the animal.

Lily of the Valley should not be confused with “true lilies” (Lilium or Hemerocallis species), which are particularly toxic to cats and can cause acute kidney failure even with minor exposures. To help prevent Lily of the Valley poisoning, pet owners should:

✅ Keep floral arrangements containing this plant out of reach, and discard vase water safely.

✅ Supervise pets in gardens, especially those with a history of chewing on plants.

✅ Avoid planting Lily of the Valley in areas accessible to pets.

Whilst prevention is always best, accidental poisoning can happen. Veterinary care for plant exposures can be costly. Pet insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection during these stressful events. The Animal Poisons Helpline is proudly sponsored by Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance, who are currently offering two months free on their Nose-to-Tail Cover during the first year for Helpline followers.

👉 Learn more at: https://quote.bowwowinsurance.com.au/?promo=AP368

If you suspect your pet has ingested Lily of the Valley or any other poisonous plant, contact the Animal Poisons Helpline immediately, even if your pet looks well:

📞 Australia: 1300 869 738
📞 New Zealand: 0800 869 738
📞 Singapore: 3106 4216
📞 United States: (917) 722-5958
📞 Canada: +1917-722-5958

If you’re a veterinary professional, we invite you to join the Animal Poisons Centre For Vets Facebook group, which is regularly updated with toxicology tidbits and emerging trends.

16/05/2025

💀 Hydrofluoric acid is a highly corrosive and toxic chemical used in a range of industrial products including rust removers, aluminium cleaners and heavy-duty household or automotive cleaners. Whilst not commonly found in everyday homes, exposure can occur through accidental spills, improper storage, or during vehicle maintenance. Though rare, pet exposures to hydrofluoric acid can have devastating consequences.

Unlike other acids, hydrofluoric acid causes tissue damage through two mechanisms. It produces chemical burns and it also penetrates deeply into tissues, where it binds to calcium and magnesium in the body. This can lead to serious electrolyte imbalances, resulting in muscle weakness, seizures, cardiac arrhythmias, and even death. In pets, exposure typically occurs through ingestion, skin contact, or inhalation of vapours.

Clinical signs of ingestion may include drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, and difficulty breathing. If the skin is exposed, redness, swelling, and severe pain may develop. These signs may be delayed, which can make early recognition challenging. Importantly, even small exposures can lead to life-threatening complications. Following any exposure, prompt decontamination and veterinary treatment are critical. Treatment may include aggressive flushing of exposed areas, pain control, intravenous fluids, calcium supplementation, and in severe cases, intensive monitoring for cardiac effects. To minimise risk to pets:

✅ Avoid storing hydrofluoric acid-containing products in homes with animals.

✅ If these products are essential, keep them in locked cupboards well out of reach of pets.

✅ Dispose of cleaning products or vehicle maintenance chemicals according to label directions.

✅ Clean up any spills immediately and restrict pet access to treated areas until completely dry and safe.

If you suspect your pet has been exposed to hydrofluoric acid, contact the Animal Poisons Helpline or your veterinarian immediately even if your pet looks well. The Animal Poisons Helpline provides free advice to pet owners in Australia and can be reached on ☎️1300 869 738 (AU), 0800 869 738 (NZ), 3106 4216 (SG), (917) 722-5958 (US) or +1917-722-5958 (CAN). If you are a member of a veterinary team you can also join the Animal Poisons Centre For Vets Facebook group which is regularly updated with toxicology tidbits and poisoning trends. To stay up to date with the latest pet poison alerts and receive updates directly to your inbox, visit animalpoisons.com.au/stay-up-to-date and subscribe.

17/04/2025

🌸 Catharanthus roseus, commonly known as the Madagascar periwinkle, is a perennial flowering plant in the Apocynaceae family. It is widely used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive, star-shaped flowers, which come in a variety of colours. The most common variety is bright pink with a slightly darker centre. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this plant is also valued for its significant medicinal properties, as it contains the alkaloids vincristine and vinblastine, which are used in chemotherapy for cancers such as leukaemia and lymphoma.

Although reports of companion animals ingesting this plant are uncommon, Madagascar periwinkle has the potential to cause poisoning if ingested. In cattle and sheep, repeated ingestion over several days has been associated with neurological signs such as unsteadiness and tremors. Other possible effects include hypotension (low blood pressure), bradycardia (slow heart rate), and hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar). Because of its chemotherapeutic properties, ingestion may also lead to bone marrow suppression; however, this risk is not well characterised in animals.

While it is not necessary to remove this plant from the home, pet owners should be mindful to:

✅ Keep toxic plants in areas that are inaccessible to pets, such as on high shelves, in hanging baskets, or on tall stands.

✅ Be cautious with clippings and dispose of plant debris in a secure outdoor bin away from your pet.

✅ Provide alternative safe greens, such as pet grass, to redirect chewing behaviour.

Ensuring the wellbeing of your pet is paramount, but veterinary care for poisoning can be costly. Toxic plant exposures may require diagnostics, hospitalisation, or even specific antidotes. Pet insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection in these events. The Animal Poisons Helpline is proudly sponsored by Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance, which is currently offering two months of their Nose-to-Tail Cover free during the first year for Helpline followers. Visit https://quote.bowwowinsurance.com.au/?promo=AP368 for more information.

The Animal Poisons Helpline provides free expert advice to pet owners in Australia and can be reached on:

📞 1300 869 738 (Australia)
📞 0800 869 738 (New Zealand)
📞 3106 4216 (Singapore)
📞 (917) 722-5958 (United States)
📞 +1917-722-5958 (Canada)

If you suspect your pet has ingested Madagascar periwinkle or any other poisonous plant, contact your veterinarian or the Animal Poisons Helpline immediately. If you’re a veterinary professional, we invite you to join our Animal Poisons Centre For Vets Facebook group, which is regularly updated with toxicology tips and emerging trends in animal poisonings.

13/04/2025

🍫 From chocolate eggs to hot cross buns, Easter is a time of sweet treats for many. However, every Easter holiday period the Animal Poisons Helpline receives a significant increase in calls regarding pets eating chocolate and sultanas.

Chocolate contains methylxanthines which are dangerous to pets. Theobromine, the primary methylxanthine in chocolate, is toxic to companion animals. Following chocolate ingestion, signs of poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhoea, increased thirst, increased urination, hyperactivity, tremor, increased heart rate, changes to the heart rhythm and possibly seizures. The risk of poisoning is dependent on a number of factors including the type of chocolate ingested (dark chocolate and baking chocolate contain a much greater quantity of methylxanthines than milk chocolate), the amount ingested and the size of the animal.

Dogs are also known to be uniquely sensitive to grapes, raisins and sultanas. Dogs that ingest these fruits can potentially develop kidney injury, which can be life-threatening or result in lifelong kidney disease. Recent research suggests that an organic acid called tartaric acid (which is found in high concentrations in grapes) is likely responsible. Hot cross buns containing sultanas are a common Easter holiday hazard for dogs. Early signs of poisoning may include vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, and lethargy. As the illness progresses, increased thirst and urination can occur which can be indicative of kidney injury.

To prevent accidental pet poisoning during the festive season, pet owners should be mindful to:

✅ Store chocolate and hot cross buns in areas that cannot be reached by pets.

✅ Keep dangerous flowers and plants away from pets (such as the Easter Lily, which is highly toxic to cats).

✅ Ensuring Easter decorations and small toys are safely secured.

✅ Provide your pets with safe, alternative treats or toys to join in on the fun.

The Animal Poisons Helpline provides free advice to pet owners in Australia and can be reached on ☎️1300 869 738 (AU), 0800 869 738 (NZ), 3106 4216 (SG), (917) 722-5958 (US) or +1917-722-5958 (CAN). If you are a member of a veterinary team you can also join the Animal Poisons Centre For Vets Facebook group which is regularly updated with toxicology tidbits and poisoning trends. To stay up to date with the latest pet poison alerts and receive updates directly to your inbox, visit animalpoisons.com.au/stay-up-to-date and subscribe.

07/04/2025

KONG PRIZE WINNERS

🎉 Congratulations to the three winners of our final KONG prize pack draw, each winning a KONG toy prize pack valued at $250 AUD!

🎁 Monika's Doggie Rescue, NSW
🎁 Paula and Miniature Dachshund from TAS
🎁 Lisa and Cat from VIC

A massive thanks to all of those pet owners that have donated to the Animal Poisons Helpline over the past three months. Your donations ensure that we can continue to assist poisoned animals.

If you like what we do and are in a position to support the Helpline, you can donate to a good cause at https://animalpoisons.com.au/support. 100% of proceeds go directly back into assisting poisoned animals.

03/04/2025

🚨🚨**ALERT**🚨🚨

🍄 As we are once again entering 'mushroom season', the Animal Poisons Helpline is beginning to receive a significant increase in the number of calls about pets eating wild mushrooms. Due to their indiscriminate eating habits, dogs are most frequently involved in these cases. Whilst many wild mushroom species are minimally toxic, some have the potential to result in severe effects including but not limited to liver failure and death. Australia is home to a huge variety of wild mushrooms and accurate identification is notoriously difficult. Furthermore, a 2023 Australian study found that mushroom identification apps misidentified mushrooms more often than they identified them correctly. As a result, these apps should not be relied upon to determine edibility.

The fungi pictured here is Chlorophyllum molybdites more commonly known as the vomiter or green-spored parasol. After rainfall, these mushrooms are commonly found growing in lawns and garden beds often occurring in large groups. Chlorophyllum molybdites is well distributed across Australia and has been reported to grow in all states and territories other than Tasmania. To our knowledge, this mushroom is not found in New Zealand. Dogs that ingested this mushroom can develop severe gastroenteritis which can result in significant fluid and electrolyte loss.

Please be cautious when walking your pets during this time of the year, particularly in the days following heavy rains. Keeping dogs leashed during walks can be an effective measure to reduce wild mushroom ingestion. Where possible, remove any mushrooms from your own yard before pets have a chance to eat them. In the case of wild mushroom ingestion, please phone the Animal Poisons Helpline immediately for advice even if your pet appears well.

The Animal Poisons Helpline provides free advice to pet owners in Australia and can be reached on ☎️ 1300 869 738 (AU), 0800 869 738 (NZ), 3106 4216 (SG), (917) 722-5958 (US) or +1917 722-5958 (CAN). If you are a member of a veterinary team you can also join the Animal Poisons Centre For Vets Facebook group which is regularly updated with toxicology tidbits and poisoning trends. To stay up to date with the latest pet poison alerts and receive updates directly to your inbox, visit animalpoisons.com.au/stay-up-to-date and subscribe.

31/03/2025

💊 Antihistamines are common medicines used to treat allergy symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing and itchy eyes. There are two main classes of antihistamines, the first generation antihistamines (also known as sedating antihistamines) and the second generation antihistamines. Following an overdose, the second generation antihistamines are more likely to cause significant poisoning as they are able to readily cross the blood brain barrier and enter the central nervous system.

Companion animals that ingest too much of an antihistamine can become sedated, disorientated and unsteady on their feet. More significant doses can result in dilated pupils, hyperactivity, agitation, tremors, an increase in the heart rate and potentially seizures. Some sedating antihistamines are also co-formulated with other medications that may carry additional risks, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen.

To prevent accidental ingestion in the home pet owners should be mindful of the following:

✅ Keep medicines out of reach of pets. Be extra careful when leaving tablets on bedside tables.

✅ Store human medications separate from pet medications to avoid accidentally mixing them up.

✅ When handling medicines, do so over a table so that if they spill, it’s less likely they will fall on the floor and be subsequently ingested by your pet.

✅ Never give human medications to a pet unless strictly advised to do so by your veterinarian.

✅ Do not give medicine that has been prescribed for one pet to another.

The Animal Poisons Helpline provides free advice to pet owners in Australia and can be reached on ☎️ 1300 869 738 (AU), 0800 869 738 (NZ), 3106 4216 (SG), (917) 722-5958 (US) or +1917 722-5958 (CAN). If you are a member of a veterinary team you can also join the Animal Poisons Centre For Vets Facebook group which is regularly updated with toxicology tidbits and poisoning trends. To stay up to date with the latest pet poison alerts and receive updates directly to your inbox, visit animalpoisons.com.au/stay-up-to-date and subscribe.

13/03/2025

🕷 The redback spider (Latrodectus hasselti), also known as the Australian black widow, is a highly venomous spider species native to Australia. Due to its wide distribution, the redback spider is arguably the most clinically significant spider in Australia. Adult females are the most commonly seen, and can be identified by their smooth black body and wide red stripe on the abdomen. Males are less boldly coloured, often light brown, and smaller in size (3-4 mm) and are of less clinical importance due to their much smaller fang size. These adaptable arachnids are particularly common in human-inhabited areas, but prefer dry, dark areas where they will not be disturbed. This means they are often found lurking in garden sheds and garages.

Dogs are curious animals and may accidentally come into contact with redback spiders, which can lead to a bite. The venom contains α-latrotoxin which affects the nervous system and muscles. Many bites may be ‘dry-bites’ where no venom is injected, however a bite where venom is injected can be life-threatening for a small animal. Early signs in small animals include vomiting, diarrhoea, pain, and restlessness. Progressive signs may include increasingly severe pain (which typically spreads away from the bite site), muscular cramping, agitation, an increased heart rate and increased blood pressure. Cats are particularly sensitive to the venom and can then go on to develop paralysis, inability to breath, cardiac failure and death.

To avoid spider bites in pets (many of these measures are also good for preventing snake bites);

✅ Keep outdoor spaces tidy to reduce spider-friendly hiding spots.

✅ Clean outdoor furniture and building eaves/verandas regularly to remove webs and spider sacs.

✅ Pack away children’s toys that are not used regularly.

✅ Remove items stored in yards that are not needed (e.g., tyres, old wood piles).

✅ Clean up leaves and sticks and remove them from pet accessible areas.

✅ Regularly check your pet’s bedding, toys, and outdoor areas for spiders.

Whilst ensuring the wellbeing of your poisoned pet is paramount, veterinary care for poisoning can often be costly. Pet insurance provides peace of mind and protection in these events. The Animal Poisons Helpline is proudly sponsored by Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance, who are currently offering two months of their Nose-to-Tail Cover for free in the first year of coverage for Helpline followers. Visit https://quote.bowwowinsurance.com.au/?promo=AP368 for more information.

The Animal Poisons Helpline provides free advice to pet owners in Australia and can be reached on ☎️ 1300 869 738 (AU), 0800 869 738 (NZ), 3106 4216 (SG), (917) 722-5958 (US) or +1917 722-5958 (CAN). If you are a member of a veterinary team you can also join the Animal Poisons Centre For Vets Facebook group which is regularly updated with toxicology tidbits and poisoning trends.

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