People Foods Your Pet Should Avoid
Pet poisoning is a tragic but preventable occurrence. Pet owners can protect their pets by learning which common household foods should be kept out of reach. The ASPCA Poison Control Center alerts pet owners to the following potentially toxic substances.
Book OnlineGrapes and Raisins
Although the exact substance responsible for toxicity in grapes and raisins isn’t fully understood, they’ve been linked to kidney failure and serious complications, especially in pets with pre-existing conditions.
Coffee and Caffeine
Most people know that chocolate is toxic to dogs, but coffee and caffeine can be just as dangerous. These products contain methylxanthines, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures, and even death.
Avocado
Persin, a substance found in avocados, can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. Rodents and birds are particularly susceptible to avocado poisoning, which can affect the lungs and heart and can even be fatal.
Onions, Garlic, and Chives
These foods can irritate the stomach and, in larger amounts, lead to blood cell damage. Cats are especially vulnerable, but dogs can be affected as well. Small amounts may not cause noticeable symptoms, but it’s best to avoid giving pets any significant quantity.
Milk
While young pets can tolerate milk, most adult pets don’t produce enough lactase to properly break down lactose in cow’s milk. Ingesting too much milk can lead to diarrhea or other digestive upset.
Salt
Excess salt intake causes increased thirst and urination and can even lead to sodium ion poisoning in pets. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, depression, tremors, elevated body temperature, and, in severe cases, seizures and death. Many common snack foods are high in salt, so keep them well out of your pet’s reach.
Xylitol
This common sweetener, found in gum, candy, baked goods, and even some toothpaste, can trigger a dangerous insulin release in pets, potentially leading to liver failure. Symptoms of xylitol poisoning include vomiting, lethargy, and loss of coordination.
The best way to prevent pet poisoning is to be familiar with these common toxic substances and keep them safely out of your pet’s reach. If your pet has eaten something on this list, don’t wait to see if symptoms appear. Call (505) 326-2205 right away so our team can advise you on the next steps.