{"id":2243,"date":"2023-12-27T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2023-12-27T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ns1758.ca\/?p=2243"},"modified":"2024-01-11T07:41:13","modified_gmt":"2024-01-11T07:41:13","slug":"what-to-do-if-your-pet-eats-something-toxic","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ns1758.ca\/what-to-do-if-your-pet-eats-something-toxic\/","title":{"rendered":"What to Do If Your Pet Eats Something Toxic"},"content":{"rendered":"
As pet parents, we often see our furry friends as part of the family, so their safety and well-being are a top priority. However, even with the most vigilant supervision, pets can sometimes get into things they shouldn’t. Imagine this scenario: you turn your back for a moment, and your dog or cat decides to sample something they found on the ground or in the trash \u2014 something toxic. It’s a situation that can send any pet owner into a panic. But fear not. With the right knowledge and swift action, you can navigate this scary moment. Here’s what you should do if you find yourself in this predicament.<\/p>\n
First and foremost, try to figure out what your pet has ingested. This step is crucial because the type of substance \u2014 whether it’s chocolate, a houseplant, or a household cleaner \u2014 will dictate the appropriate course of action. If you can, grab the container or substance to take with you to the vet. This can help the veterinary staff to assess the situation quickly. Keep a list of common toxic substances handy so you know what items around your home could pose a risk.<\/p>\n
Human medications<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Chocolate and caffeine<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Grapes and raisins<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Xylitol (a common sweetener)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Certain plants (like lilies for cats and sago palms for dogs)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Antifreeze and other automotive products<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Rat poison and other rodenticides<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
If you suspect your pet has consumed something harmful, time is of the essence. Here’s the playbook:<\/p>\n
We know it’s easier said than done, but it’s important to stay as calm as possible. Pets can pick up on our stress, which could make them more anxious or cause them to hide, making it more difficult to provide them with the help they need.<\/p>\n
If you’re unsure whether the substance ingested is toxic, calling your veterinarian or a pet emergency clinic<\/strong> is a critical next step. They can advise you on whether you should bring your pet in or if there’s something you can do at home to mitigate the problem.<\/p>\n It might seem logical to make your pet vomit to get rid of the toxin, but this can sometimes do more harm than good. Each toxin behaves differently, and for some substances, inducing vomiting can cause more damage to your pet’s esophagus or can lead to aspiration, which is when vomit is breathed into the lungs. Always wait for professional guidance before taking this step.<\/p>\n If the substance your pet has ingested is potentially dangerous, or if you’ve been instructed by a professional, get your pet to the vet as quickly as possible. Quick, decisive action can make all the difference. Keep these considerations in mind:<\/p>\nDo Not Induce Vomiting Unless Instructed<\/h3>\n
Seek Professional Help<\/h2>\n
Research Your Local Resources<\/h3>\n