If your pet has just been caught “red-pawed” raiding the bin, pantry, shed, or medicine cabinet, it’s important to act quickly to help reduce potential harm.
Here’s what to do and what not to do if your pet has eaten something silly.
What to do:
1. Be aware of the more common household dangers
Common household toxins for pets include:
- Food items such as chocolate, cacao, raisins, grapes, onions, garlic, and foods containing xylitol sweeteners
- Rotting garbage
- Toxic plants such as lilies or sago palm
- Some essential oils (particularly undiluted), such as tea tree oil
- Human medications such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, and anti-depressants
- Chemicals such as rat bait, snail bait, weedkiller, and cleaning products
- Small objects such as batteries
2. Detective work
Quickly try to ascertain exactly what your pet has eaten. This involves confirming what substances they might have eaten (get a brand name and/or active ingredient if you can) and the approximate quantity.
3. Seek veterinary advice
As soon as possible, phone our experienced team to ask for advice. If you can’t reach us, you can also seek advice from the Animal Poisons Helpline.
Even if you’re not sure whether what your pet consumed is likely to be harmful or not, it’s always safest to check.
What not to do
1. Watch and wait without veterinary advice
Prompt veterinary treatment can mean the difference between a near miss and a fatal poisoning for your pet.
If your pet has ingested a toxin within the last 1-4 hours, we may be able to induce vomiting to clear their system of the toxin. In other cases, we can administer appropriate antidotes or supportive therapy to minimise their symptoms.
2. Try to treat your pet yourself
Don’t be tempted to try home remedies from Google. Unfortunately, we have seen pets present unwell due to inappropriate substances administered by well-meaning owners. Prompt veterinary assessment is always best!
For more advice on dietary indiscretion in pets, consult our toxicology-talented team!