Your home is full of items and products that you might not think twice about. However, although some may seem harmless, many home goods pose serious risks to your pet. From common household plants to everyday foods, myriad items can pique a curious pet’s interest. You need to be aware of potential dangers lurking in your home for the safety and well-being of your furry family member. Our Fort Mill Animal Hospital team provides tips on how you can help keep your pet safe from hazards in your home.

Pet hazards in the home

Who knew something as simple as a rubber band could harm pets? You may be surprised to realize the number of everyday household goods that can negatively affect your pet’s health and well-being. While you cannot rid your pet’s environment of everything that can be harmful, becoming aware of the dangers can benefit your four-legged companion. Consider the following household hazards:

  • Toxic plants — Plants beautify your home and garden, but certain varieties should be avoided because they are poisonous to pets. Examples include lilies, philodendrons, sago palms, daffodils, crocus, and aloe vera. Lilies are especially toxic to cats, and even drinking the vase water can cause severe kidney failure. Other seemingly harmless plants, including ivy, can cause gastrointestinal (GI) upset if a hungry pet consumes a large amount. To prevent accidental ingestion, keep toxic plants out of your pet’s reach and opt for pet-safe alternatives. Consult the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) guide to toxic and non-tox plants, or contact our Fort Mill Animal Hospital team for pet-safe plant recommendations. 
  • Human foods — Pets love to snack on people’s foods, but not all food is safe for them. Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onions and garlic, caffeine, and xylitol, an ingredient in sugar-free gum and candy, are some foods that are toxic to dogs and cats. Keep these items securely stored and never feed them to your furry friend. Ensure you tell family members and guests about foods that are toxic to pets, and read labels before offering your pet a new product to ensure all ingredients are pet-safe.
  • Medications — Many over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription drugs can be hazardous to pets if they ingest them. Painkillers, antidepressants, sleep aids, and cold medicines are among the most common medications that harm pets. Medications should be kept in secure cabinets out of your pet’s reach, and never give them any medication without consulting our veterinary team first.
  • Household chemicals — Several cleaning products, pesticides, and other household chemicals can be toxic to pets. Keep these items safely stored in cabinets, closets, the garage, or other places inaccessible to your four-legged friend. When using chemical products, ensure proper ventilation and allow surfaces to dry thoroughly before allowing pets back into the area. Clean up all spills in the garage or on the driveway, as antifreeze ingestion is frequently dire and could be fatal.
  • Small objects — Your pet probably loves to play with small items by batting them around the floor, and many dogs like to see if certain objects are edible. Small household items, including batteries, rubber bands, hair ties, children’s toys, and coins, can lead to a gastrointestinal blockage if ingested. Batteries are especially dangerous if ingested because the acid can eat through your pet’s stomach or intestine. Keep these items stored securely, scan the floors for any dropped small objects, and always be mindful of any items within your pet’s reach.
  • String-like objects — Dental floss, sewing thread, rope fibers, and curling ribbon may seem harmless, but they can cause serious internal injuries or GI blockages in pets if swallowed. Cats often ingest strings, but dogs have also been known to swallow them, too. Keep string-like items safely stored and be cautious when using them around your furry pal.

As a responsible pet owner, you must be aware of potential hazards in your home and take proactive measures to keep your furry pal safe and healthy. By being mindful of common household hazards, you can help prevent your pet from experiencing an illness or injury. Contact our Fort Mill Animal Hospital team if you suspect your pet has ingested something harmful.