The most dangerous substances to pets in Texas are plants, household chemicals and cleaners, and medications. If your pet is showing symptoms of poisoning or exposure to a toxic substance, you must know what to do and act quickly to save their life. Here is a look at the most dangerous poisons and toxins to pets in Texas and what to do if your pet is poisoned.
Poisonous Plants
Your pet may come into contact with poisonous plants in your home, yard, or while at the park or out for a walk. The most dangerous plants to pets are:
- Lilies – All parts of the lily plant are poisonous to cats.
- Sago Palm – All parts of the Sago Palm are toxic to dogs and cats.
- Oleander – Infestation of oleander leaves can be fatal to cats and dogs.
- Blue-green algae – This algae blooms in non-moving bodies of water in the spring and summer and produces toxins that are lethal to cats, dogs, and humans.
Toxic Household Chemicals and Cleaners
Toxic household chemicals and cleaners can accidentally contaminate your pet’s food or water sources or be used to poison your pets. Your pet may ingest a substance thinking it is food or a treat. The most dangerous household chemicals and cleaners to pets are:
- Antifreeze
- Rat poison
- Motor oil
- Detergent and detergent pods
Dangerous Medications
Prescription and over the counter medications act as toxins to cats and dogs, and can be lethal. All medications should be kept out of reach, even if you don’t think your pet can get into the bottle. If you spill medication on the floor or counter, make sure to pick up every pill. The most dangerous medications to pets are:
- Painkillers like ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, aspirin, and acetaminophen
- Prescription painkillers
- Stimulants like Adderall
- Antidepressants
- Depressants or sedatives like benzodiazepines, ketamine, GHB, and kava
Symptoms of Poisoning in Pets
If you notice any of these symptoms of poisoning in your cat or dog, you must act quickly to get them help from a veterinary professional:
- Respiratory problems like shortness of breath or trouble breathing
- Mouth irritation like burns or bruising around the mouth
- Excessive drooling or excessive thirst
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Behavioral changes
- Restlessness or agitation
- Weakness or lethargy
- Inability to walk or paralysis
- Confusion or disorientation
- Rapid heart rate
- High temperature
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness or coma
What to Do if Your Pet Is Poisoned
If you suspect your pet has been poisoned or has ingested a toxic substance, you should immediately contact the ASPCA Pet Poison Control hotline and your veterinarian. Give them information about your pet’s symptoms and what substance(s) or items they may have eaten or been in contact with. Then, drive your pet to the closest emergency animal hospital.
At Animal Emergency Clinic North East, we offer 24/7 emergency pet services in Humble, TX. We specialize in pet emergency care, laboratory and diagnostic services, electrocardiogram monitoring, radiology, oxygen therapy, medical and intensive care services, and surgical services. We will act quickly to triage your pet and get them the care they need. Come in right away for emergency pet care, or call us now to let us know you’re on your way.