You love your pets like family, but many everyday items in your home could put them at risk. From a dropped piece of chocolate to a curious cat nibbling a houseplant, accidental poisonings happen more often than most pet owners realize—and the results can be life-threatening.

At North Royalton Animal Hospital, we treat many emergencies that could have been prevented with a little awareness and preparation. Understanding which foods, plants, and household products are toxic to dogs and cats is one of the best ways to keep them safe. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common poisons, the warning signs of toxicity, and what to do if your pet is exposed.

The Hidden Dangers: Common Foods and Household Items

Even the most careful pet parents can overlook everyday hazards that pose serious risks to dogs and cats. Many of the products we use, eat, or decorate with are harmless to us but toxic to our pets—sometimes in surprisingly small amounts.

At North Royalton Animal Hospital, we see accidental poisonings caused by everything from pantry staples to seasonal décor. The key to prevention is knowing what to keep out of reach and how to recognize danger before an accident happens.

Below are some of the most common culprits found in homes year-round, along with tips to help you keep your pet safe.

Human Foods That Harm

Chocolate and Caffeine
Chocolate toxicity remains one of the most common pet emergencies. The ingredients theobromine and caffeine stimulate the nervous and cardiovascular systems, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, or even cardiac arrest. Dark chocolate, cocoa powder, and baking chocolate contain the highest concentrations of toxins.

Even small amounts can be harmful, particularly for small dogs and cats. If your pet eats chocolate, contact your veterinarian immediately and note the type and amount consumed. During holidays like Halloween and Christmas, when treats are everywhere, extra vigilance is essential.

See Halloween Safety: Chocolate Toxicity in Pets for guidance.

Xylitol in Sugar-Free Products
Xylitol, found in sugar-free gum, mints, baked goods, some medications, vitamins, toothpaste, and diabetic foods, can cause a rapid insulin surge in dogs, leading to life-threatening hypoglycemia and potential liver failure. Always check labels and keep xylitol-containing products out of reach. Learn more in Paws Off Xylitol—It’s Dangerous for Dogs.

Grapes and Raisins
Grapes, raisins, and currants can cause acute kidney failure in dogs. Because individual sensitivity varies, any amount should be treated as an emergency. Watch for early symptoms such as decreased appetite, vomiting, lethargy, and changes in urination. Bring your dog to the vet immediately if ingestion occurs—prompt treatment can prevent irreversible damage.

Dangerous Household Items

Plants: Toxic and Non-Toxic

Many popular plants are hazardous. Lilies can cause kidney failure in cats; sago palms can cause liver failure in dogs; azaleas, tulip bulbs, and oleander can affect the heart and nervous system. Check the Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants – ASPCA database before bringing new plants home. Pet-safer options include spider plants, Boston ferns, and pet grass.

Cleaning Products and Chemicals
Household cleaners, antifreeze, and automotive products can cause burns, organ damage, or neurologic issues. Pets often step in spills and ingest toxins while grooming or by drinking sweet-tasting antifreeze. Store chemicals securely and clean spills promptly. See Essential Tips for Pet-Proofing Your Home for practical prevention.

Medications and Drugs: Hidden Hazards

Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medications

Common Human Medications
Human meds account for a large share of pet poisoning calls. Pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen, antidepressants, and iron-containing vitamins can be dangerous. Never give human medications unless directed by your veterinarian, and store all meds securely. Use pharmacy take-back programs for disposal instead of tossing pills in the trash.

Illicit and Abused Drugs

Marijuana and Other Substances
Accidental marijuana ingestion is increasingly common. Dogs are particularly susceptible to THC toxicity, which can cause incoordination, drooling, urinary dribbling, and altered mentation. Edibles may add risks from chocolate or xylitol. See Keeping Pets Safe from Marijuana – ASPCA News.

Emergency Response
If you suspect ingestion of any controlled substance, seek veterinary care immediately. Veterinarians focus solely on your pet’s safety and maintain confidentiality. The Toxicities from Illicit and Abused Drugs – Merck Vet Manual offers clinical insight into toxicities and treatments.

Seasonal and Situational Hazards

Holiday and Seasonal Dangers

Chocolate and Treats
Holidays increase exposure to dangerous foods as guests share treats or leave candy within reach. Halloween, Easter, and Christmas pose chocolate risks. Thanksgiving adds hazards like turkey bones, fatty foods, and xylitol-containing desserts. Educate visitors and offer pet-safe treats so your pet isn’t tempted by unsafe options.

Rodenticides and Insecticides
Warmer months and home projects often mean more pest control products. Many rodenticides are highly palatable and can cause severe bleeding disorders. Ant baits and slug pellets can harm curious pets. Consider safer alternatives and review Rodenticide and Your Pet: What You Need to Know – ASPCA.

Outdoor and Environmental Risks

Common Yard Hazards
Fertilizers and herbicides can trigger gastrointestinal upset or worse, depending on ingredients. Cocoa mulch contains theobromine, the toxin also found in chocolate. Compost piles can harbor mold and toxins. Grilling season brings risks from corn cobs (intestinal blockages) and fatty scraps (pancreatitis). Supervise pets and restrict access to known hazards.

What to Do in Case of Poisoning

Recognizing an Emergency

Symptoms of Poisoning
Signs vary by toxin and dose, but common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, difficulty breathing, incoordination, tremors or seizures, and behavior changes. Some toxins act immediately, while others take hours or days. When in doubt, call your veterinarian. The Help! Is This a Pet Emergency? guide can help you determine urgency.

Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Stay calm and act quickly. Time matters. Emergency Care Resources for Pet Owners – AVMA for preparedness tips.
  2. Contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic right away. Have packaging, ingredient, and product information ready if possible.
  3. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a veterinary professional. Some substances, such as caustic cleaners, cause more harm coming back up.

Utilizing Poison Control Resources

Two trusted 24/7 resources can help:

  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435
  • Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Both lines connect you with veterinary toxicologists who can guide your next steps and advise your vet on treatment.

Preventative Measures and Ongoing Care

Creating a Safe Environment

Pet-Proofing Your Home

Effective pet-proofing is ongoing. Regularly scan your home from your pet’s eye level. Secure cabinets with medications, cleaners, and automotive supplies. Be mindful of new products entering the home and changes in your pet’s behavior with age or health. The Potentially Dangerous Items for Your Pet – FDA resource can help you identify risks.

Building a Relationship with Your Vet

Regular Check-Ups and Open Communication

Establishing care with a trusted veterinary practice before emergencies arise improves outcomes. Routine wellness visits create baselines and help identify subtle changes early. At North Royalton Animal Hospital Services, comprehensive wellness exams include conversations about your pet’s environment and potential toxin exposures.

Emergency Preparedness
Know your options for after-hours care to avoid delays when minutes matter. Many practices offer urgent care for issues that can’t wait but aren’t ICU-level emergencies. Review North Royalton Animal Hospital Emergency Care for guidance on when to seek immediate attention versus urgent scheduling.

Smart Pet Safety: Practical Prevention That Works

Prevention is the most effective strategy against accidental poisoning, and quick action after exposure can save your pet’s life. If your pet shows signs of toxicity, acts unusually after possible exposure, or has ingested a questionable substance, don’t wait.

Our team at North Royalton Animal Hospital provides routine wellness care to discuss prevention strategies and urgent care services when accidents occur. We’re equipped with diagnostics and treatment protocols to address poisoning emergencies effectively. Contact North Royalton Animal Hospital at your first concern, or request an appointment to create a safer environment for your pet. Our experienced team is ready to help you navigate any situation with confidence and expertise.

Phone Number: (440) 237-7691, (440) 328-8993 (text)