Substances in the home that are toxic to dogs and cats

Did you know that there might be substances in your apartment that are toxic to dogs and cats? 

By nature, dogs and cats are very curious, and this curiosity can put their health at risk even when they’re indoors. This means we shouldn’t just focus on their diet and providing them with the right spaces to play and engage in their activities. We also need to take care of the environments and objects that our four-legged friends might come into contact with. 

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at which substances are toxic to dogs and cats living in apartments. 

First steps toward a pet-friendly home: the sanitizer

If you have a dog or a cat, you’ve probably had to deal with the ever-present issue of cleaning at least once. Sanitizing beds, bowls, floors, toys, and so much more. However, most of the time we tend to choose a generic cleaner to address all these needs. Unfortunately, this can be a mistake. 

In fact, not all detergents are pet-friendly because they contain chemicals that can irritate or damage the skin of dogs and cats. Try to avoid leaving detergent residue on fabrics and surfaces, and steer clear of heavily scented products.

Let’s take a look at which substances are toxic to dogs and cats when it comes to hand sanitizer. 

Products with intense fragrances 

Did you know that even a pleasant smell is perceived about 40 times more strongly by your four-legged friends? 

It’s no secret: dogs and cats have a highly developed sense of smell. A scent that we perceive as “pleasant and subtle” might not be so for them (or might even be unbearable!).  

Bleach

Bleach is a common ingredient in disinfectant products. What we often don’t realize is that inhaling its fumes can irritate the respiratory tract. 

Not only that, but the skin of dogs and cats is particularly sensitive, and contact with surfaces cleaned with bleach could cause burning and redness. 

Pesticides

We know that mosquitoes, parasites, and small insects can often be harmful to dogs and cats, but are we doing the right thing to protect them? 

The use of pesticides (especially powdered ones) can be very dangerous for our four-legged friends! We therefore recommend opting for natural, environmentally friendly insect repellents —such as certain essential oils—and always using pest control products specifically formulated for the target species.

See also the article “How to Read Dog Food Labels: A Complete Guide.”

Substances Toxic to Dogs and Cats in the Home: A Complete List

In addition to household cleaning products, there are many other substances that are toxic to dogs and cats. 

Let’s take a look at the most common ones you’ll find in any apartment.

Car products

Windshield washer fluid and antifreeze: just as they are toxic to us humans, they are also toxic to our four-legged friends. Furthermore, one of the major problems is that dogs and cats find the glycol in antifreeze particularly palatable. Our advice is therefore to always be very careful, as ingesting these liquids can cause kidney failure and death (even in small amounts).

Plants

To get rid of undigested food, cats often eat certain herbs that induce vomiting. They may therefore try to chew on or eat the plants in your home. This is particularly dangerous because there are many plants in our homes that are poisonous to dogs and cats. 

Let's look at a few examples: 

• cyclamen;
• tulips;
• lilies;
• oleanders;
• poinsettia;
• rhododendrons.

Medicines for human use

Under no circumstances should you give your dog or cat medications intended for human use. Even in small amounts, products such as antidepressants, aspirin, acetaminophen, and laxatives are extremely dangerous and can cause serious illness or even death. 

If you suspect that your pet has accidentally ingested human medication, take it to the vet immediately. 

Hygiene and beauty products

Here are some examples of cosmetic and hygiene products that are dangerous for dogs and cats: 

• hair dyes; 
• sunscreen lotions;
• deodorant;
• nail polish.

Home Decor Products

Be careful with solvents, paints, and wood waxes. If these products get on a dog’s or cat’s fur, for example, they can cause blisters, irritation, and a burning sensation. 

Signs of poisoning

It’s not always easy to tell if your dog or cat has ingested a toxic substance they found around the house. However, you know them well enough to tell when something is wrong. 

In any case, there are some common symptoms: 

• lethargy;
• excessive salivation;
• uncoordinated movements;
• vomiting;
• diarrhea;
• seizures;
• increased thirst and urination. 

In such cases, we recommend that you contact your veterinarian immediately. 

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The post " Toxic Substances for Dogs and Cats in the Home " first appeared on Dog and Cat Food | Alleva .