A pet medical emergency can be scary, and if you aren’t prepared ahead of time, you may not act quickly enough. You should be aware of the most common items in your household that are poisonous or dangerous to your pets, along with the warning signs of pet poisoning. If you see any of these symptoms in your pet, you should call your veterinarian or take your pet to an emergency veterinary hospital right away.
Common Signs of Pet Poisoning
If you notice any of these symptoms or warning signs of pet poisoning, contact your veterinarian or take your pet to the closest veterinary hospital:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Blood in the urine, stool, or vomit
- Convulsions or seizures
- Loss of consciousness
- Trouble walking or standing
- Loss of balance
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Excessive thirst
- Agitation or restlessness
- Aggression
- Lethargy or fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Disinterest in activities
- Pale gums
What to Do in an Emergency
Being prepared for a pet emergency will help you stay calm and remember what to do. Immediately remove your pet from the hazardous substance. Call your veterinarian or call the closest veterinary hospital to tell them you are on your way. If possible, get a sample of the item your pet ingested or their vomit. Follow your veterinarian’s instructions or take your pet to the closest veterinary hospital.
Poisonous Substances to Watch Out For
If possible, you should keep these poisonous items out of your home. At the least, you should keep them out of reach of your pet. These are the items that most commonly cause accidental pet poisonings:
- Over the counter and prescription medications
- Human foods like garlic, onions, chocolate, coffee, alcohol, yeast, and grapes
- Plants like tulips, holly, mistletoe, ivy, poinsettia, lilies, daffodils, and sago palms
- Household products like antifreeze, pesticides, rodenticide, cleaning products, batteries, and magnets
Don’t waste a minute if you suspect your pet has gotten into something dangerous or is showing signs of poisoning. Take him to an emergency veterinary hospital right away.
