Pet Toxins

As the weather clears, we usually see more pets with toxicity from mushrooms; however, there are many other toxins which your pet may ingest, like rat bait and snail bait. The new ones are even more toxic and difficult to treat than older ones. If you think your pet has ingested some, try to bring in the container that it came in so we know what the toxin is.

We see pyrethrin toxicity from some of the over the counter flea medications, especially in cats. Always come in ASAP if you suspect poisoning so we have a chance to induce vomiting.

Did you know that garlic, onions (including shallots and leeks) and even raisins and grapes can be toxic to dogs and cats?

Most people know about chocolate toxicity, but we see similar poisoning from coffee and other caffeine stimulants.

Human medicines are often dropped on the floor and scooped up by your pet. Pain pills, sedatives and vitamins can be toxic, as well as alcohol, marijuana and other drugs. Even lilies can be toxic to dogs and cats.

Here is a list of more pet toxins:

·         Easter Lily (All Lillies)

·         Mistletoe

·         Ethylene Clycol (Anti-freeze)

·         Snail Bait (Metaldehyde)

·         Macadamia Nuts

·         Rat or Gopher Poison

·         Some Flea Products with cats

·         Human & Pet Prescriptions

·         Illegal Recreational Drugs

·         Human & Pet Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs

·         Antidepressants

·         Moldy Walnuts

·         Grapes or Raisins

·         Chocolate

·         Cocoa Mulch

·         Wild Mushrooms

·         Insecticides

·         Compost

·         Garbage

-George Walters, DVM



For more information, visit www.northbayanimalhospital.com.