Did you know ibuprofen (Advil) can kill your pet?
Did you know grapes and raisins are also lethal?
Did you know your aloe vera plant is toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes, it really is true. Some of the commonly used human drugs, favorite people foods, and popular plants are toxic to your pet and can even cause death.
Not all people drugs are hazardous to your pet. Veterinarians frequently have their clients give baby aspirin to dogs and cats, and if your veterinarian advises it, then it is safe to do it. However, people often think of ibuprofen and aspirin as interchangeable but for animals, ibuprofen and aspirin are as different as night and day.
Here is a list of drugs people frequently have around the house that are harmful or fatal to your pets:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as Advil, Aleve, Midol, and Motrin.
Acetaminophen found in Tylenol, Liquiprin, and Anacin-3.
Antidepressants such as Cymbalta, Prozac, and Lexapro.
ADD and ADHD medications such as Concerta, Adderall, and Ritalin.
Benzodiazpines and sleep aids such as Xanax, Ambien, and Lunesta.
Birth-control pills which contain estrogen, estrdiol, and progesterone.
Cholesterol lowering agents such as Lipitor, Zocor, and Crestor.
A good rule to remember is to call your veterinarian before giving your pet any drugs meant for people.
Some of our favorite foods are harmful or toxic to our pets. Many cause diarrhea and / or vomiting which can lead to dehydration and death. Others can damage the liver or kidney to such an extent that those organs fail. Here is a list of foods to avoid giving your pets: Xylitol sweetener used in chewing gum, baked goods, and toothpaste. It can cause elevated liver enzymes and liver failure in just a few days. Chocolate, and the darker it is, the more lethal it is. Coffee and caffeine can cause diarrhea and vomiting. Alcoholic beverages or foods containing alcohol. Milk and milk-based products. These can cause diarrhea and other digestive upsets . . . even for cats. Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure. Yeast dough can rise in your pet's digestive system and can cuase the stomach or intestines to rupture. Raw or undercooked meat, eggs, and bones can contain salmonella and E coli bacteria. Onions, garlic, and chives can lead to red blood cell damage and is more of a risk for cats than for dogs. A good rule to remember is to give your cats food and treats meant only for cats, and give your dogs food and treats meant only for dogs. For more information on foods harmful to your pets, click on this link: Human Foods Dangerous to Pets .
People love to have plants in and around the house. Unfortunately, some of these plants are harmful to our pets. Here is a list of some of these plants commonly found in our area:
Aloe vera can cause vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, and tremors.
Asparagus Fern (also known as Sprengeri Fern, Lace Fern, and Shatavari).
Azalea (also known as Rhododendrun).
Begonia, Buttercup, Chrysanthemum, and Daffodil.
Dieffenbachia.
Easter Lily, Geranium, Iris, and Tulip.
Hibiscus, Hyacinth, Narcissus, and Sweet Pea.
Mistletoe.
Tomato Plant.
Yucca.
A good rule to remember is to call your veterinarian if your pet shows signs of vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, wobbly gait, or not eating. It might be an illness that needs attention, or it might be a plant he ate.