Your home may seem like the safest place for your pet, but everyday household items can pose risks you might not think about. Foods left on the counter, cleaning supplies under the sink, and small objects dropped on the floor can all cause trouble if a curious dog or cat gets hold of them.
Pets rely heavily on their noses and mouths to explore their surroundings. They may sniff, lick, chew, or swallow things before you notice, so knowing which household items can be harmful helps prevent accidents.
Here are 15 common household hazards to watch for if you have pets.
Chocolate
Chocolate is a familiar household treat, but it can poison dogs and cats. It contains theobromine, which pets process poorly, and eating it can cause vomiting, restlessness, a rapid heartbeat, tremors, or seizures. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate contain higher amounts of theobromine, so keep all chocolate stored in a closed cabinet or another place pets can’t reach.
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Medications
Human medications can seriously harm pets, even in small amounts. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are particularly dangerous, and other prescription or over-the-counter drugs can also cause poisoning. Store pills in closed cabinets or secure containers, and pick up any that fall on the floor right away.
Cleaning Products
Many household cleaners contain ingredients that can irritate a pet’s skin, eyes, lungs, or digestive system. Keep bleach, ammonia, and toilet bowl cleaners out of reach, even when their containers are closed. Store these products securely and keep pets away from freshly cleaned surfaces until they are dry and safe to use.
Candles
An open flame can become a hazard if a curious cat knocks over a candle or a dog’s tail brushes against it. A fallen candle can cause burns or start a fire, especially if it lands near curtains, rugs, or furniture. Flameless LED candles give a similar soft glow without the risk of an exposed flame.
Xylitol
Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in some sugar-free gum, candy, peanut butter, and baked goods. It is highly toxic to dogs and can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar, seizures, and liver failure. Check ingredient labels before sharing food with your dog, and store anything containing xylitol well out of reach.
Household Pesticides
Insect sprays, rodent bait, and other pest-control products can poison pets if they lick treated surfaces, breathe in the chemicals, or eat the bait. Keep pets away from treated areas for the period stated on the product label, and store all pest-control supplies in a secure location. Ask your veterinarian about safer pest-control options if you’re unsure which products are suitable for a home with animals.
Plants
Some popular houseplants and garden plants can seriously harm pets if they chew on the leaves, flowers, or stems. Lilies are especially dangerous to cats, while azaleas and sago palms can also seriously poison pets. Check every plant before bringing it home, and keep toxic varieties out of areas your animals can reach.
Related: 15 Plants That Are Banned or Restricted in Certain Parts of the U.S.
Batteries
Batteries can cause serious injuries if a pet chews on one or swallows it. Their contents can burn the mouth and digestive tract, while some batteries can cause severe internal damage if swallowed. Keep spare batteries in a closed storage case or drawer, and dispose of used ones safely.
Alcohol
Alcoholic drinks can poison pets, even if they only manage to lick up a small amount. Signs of alcohol poisoning may include vomiting, poor coordination, unusual sleepiness, and breathing problems. Clear unfinished drinks from tables and counters, and store bottles out of reach.
Certain Human Foods
Some foods that are perfectly ordinary for people can make pets very sick. Grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, avocados, and macadamia nuts are among the foods pets should not have access to. Check with your veterinarian before giving your pet table scraps or unfamiliar treats.
Household Chemicals
Antifreeze, paint thinner, fertilizers, and solvents can cause serious poisoning if a pet swallows them or licks up a spill. Some products may also irritate the skin or harm the eyes on contact. Keep chemicals in their original containers in a locked cabinet or other secure storage area, and clean up spills before letting pets back into the space.
Sharp Objects
Scissors, box cutters, sewing needles, and razor blades can cause cuts or puncture wounds if pets get hold of them. Small sharp objects can also be swallowed, leading to injuries that may require emergency treatment. Put these items away in closed drawers or storage containers after each use.
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Electronic Cords
Puppies and kittens may chew on electrical cords out of curiosity or while teething. Chewing through a live cord can cause burns, electric shock, and serious injury. Use cord covers or cable sleeves, and unplug electronics when your pet chews wires.
Plastic Bags
Plastic shopping bags and food packaging can pose a suffocation risk if a pet gets its head stuck inside. Cats may also be drawn to the sound and texture of crinkly plastic, while dogs might chew or swallow pieces. Keep bags in a closed cabinet or dispenser, not on the floor or within reach.
Related: 12 Common Plastic Wrap Mistakes People Make at Home
Trash
Kitchen garbage often contains spoiled food, chicken bones, food wrappers, and other things pets shouldn’t eat. Dogs, in particular, may knock over a bin or pull out a bag if they smell something tempting inside. A trash can with a locking lid or pet-resistant design can help keep them away from scraps and other potentially harmful waste.
