Knowledge is Power, Preparation is Love
Our homes are sanctuaries, but hidden dangers can lurk in plain sight for our curious companions. This guide is a critical resource, but it is not a substitute for professional veterinary care.
🚨 If you suspect poisoning, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately: (888) 426-4435
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
A common pain reliever highly toxic to pets, especially cats, causing liver failure and red blood cell damage.
Anticoagulant Rodenticides
Found in many rat poisons, these prevent blood from clotting, leading to internal bleeding.
Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3)
A type of rodent poison that causes a life-threatening increase in blood calcium, leading to acute kidney failure.
Ethylene Glycol (Antifreeze)
Extremely dangerous, even in small amounts. Its sweet taste is attractive to pets, but it causes severe kidney failure.
Organophosphates & Carbamates
Ingredients in some insecticides that can cause severe neurological effects, including seizures and respiratory failure.
Metaldehyde (Snail Bait)
The active ingredient in many snail baits. It is extremely toxic, causing uncontrollable seizures and tremors.
Heavy Metals (Lead, Zinc, etc.)
Found in old paint, batteries, and other sources, these metals cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological damage.
Iron
Common in supplements. An overdose is corrosive to the GI tract and can cause severe liver damage.
Opioids / Narcotics
Powerful pain medications that can cause profound respiratory and central nervous system depression.
Calcium Channel Blockers
Blood pressure medications that can cause a life-threatening drop in blood pressure and heart rate.
Albuterol
Often found in asthma inhalers. An overdose can cause a life-threatening spike in heart rate.
Insulin Overdose
Can occur in diabetic pets, causing a dangerous drop in blood sugar that leads to seizures and coma.
Test Your Knowledge
Check your understanding of common pet toxins and their treatments with this quick quiz.
1. A pet has ingested antifreeze (Ethylene Glycol). Which of the following is a primary antidote?
2. If a dog consumes anticoagulant rat poison, what is the most likely treatment?
3. A cat has ingested Acetaminophen (Tylenol). What is the correct antidote?
4. Which toxin is specifically counteracted by the antidote Naloxone?
5. Poisoning by organophosphate insecticides is treated with which antidote?