By Brianna Hansen
October brings cooler weather, falling leaves, and plenty of festive fun. But for pet owners, it’s important to remember that seasonal staples and everyday household items can pose hidden dangers to cats and dogs … So, let’s take a closer look!
As you probably know, chocolate may be the ultimate Halloween indulgence for us, but it’s one of the most well-known toxins for pets. Both cats and dogs can suffer from chocolate poisoning, with dark chocolate and baking chocolate being especially dangerous due to their high theobromine content. But did you know sugar-free candies can be even worse? Many contain xylitol, a sugar substitute that can cause life-threatening drops in blood sugar, seizures, and liver failure in dogs. Always keep candy out of paw’s reach, and remind trick-or-treaters not to share their haul with furry friends!
While pumpkin itself is safe for pets in small amounts and can even aid digestion, beware of moldy jack-o’-lanterns left outside, which often harbor harmful bacteria. Similarly, corn cobs from decorative displays (or holiday meals) can cause dangerous blockages if swallowed. Candles, potpourri, and essential oils can also irritate pets’ respiratory systems when inhaled and cause chemical burns if ingested. Cinnamon, clove, peppermint and pine oils are a few seasonal offenders that come to mind.
While the season adds some unique risks, don’t forget about the common items found year-round like grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and alcohol, all which are highly toxic to pets. Of course, cleaning supplies and medications left accessible also remain top culprits for accidental poisonings … And did I mention houseplants? Jade, aloe, lilies, corn plants, and pothos are all important to keep out of reach.
The scary part about pet poisoning is that symptoms can appear quickly and may even vary depending on the substance. Common warning signs include vomiting or diarrhea; excessive drooling, thirst, or urination; lethargy, weakness, or loss of coordination; pale gums; tremors or seizures; and rapid breathing, shortness of breath, or abnormal heart rate.
If you notice any of these symptoms, or suspect your pet has eaten something harmful, call your veterinarian immediately or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661. Quick action saves lives!
The best way to enjoy the season with your pets is through prevention … keep dangerous items out of reach, supervise decor, and offer pet-safe treats over candy. With a little awareness, you and your four-legged friends can enjoy all the fun fall has to offer, without any frightening trips to the vet. Visit HumaneAnimalPartners.org/resources for more tips on keeping your pets healthy and safe all year long.
– Look for the this month’s Humane Animal Partners (HAP) sponsored by Tito’s Handmade Vodka featured adoptable pets in the print version of this month’s issue, linked here.
