Top 8 Common Household Poisons

1. Antifreeze (Ethylene glycol)

Even if you aren't a mechanic working on cars in the driveway, cars may leak this fluid at any time of the year. It is a bright green-yellow liquid that is sweet to the taste, attracting pets. One swallow may be lethal for small animals! A safer alternative is propylene glycol.

Related Reading:
What are the signs seen with antifreeze toxicity in dogs and cats?

2. Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medications

Everyone is familiar with the "Keep out of reach of children" warnings, but may underestimate their pets. My own dog once consumed almost a full bottle of Vitamin C tablets. It was sealed and on my countertop! Pre-natal vitamins may also be targeted by curious pets. Pills may be coated allowing for easier swallowing and a more pleasant taste. Pets have an advantage over children -- their strong jaws and teeth can chew through many "child safe" bottles.

3. Pest Control Baits and Poisons

Rat and mouse poisons and any other baits, such as slug and snail bait should be used with extreme caution in a household with pets. These items are baits -- they are made to entice animals to eat. Hiding the box behind the cupboard is not guaranteed safe, either. Pets have been known to move furniture or items to reach poisons. Also, other animals or events may move the poison into easy reach.

4. Household and Yard Plants and Trees

The beautiful plants and trees that adorn our homes and yards may also be deadly poison if ingested or even chewed upon. It is wise to confine pets from known poisonous plants if possible. Most county extension offices or gardening societies in your area will be able to assist you in selecting safe plants for your geographic area and climate.

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• Are Christmas Trees Poisonous?
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Additional Poisonous Plant Information:

• ASPCA Poison Plant List
• Poison Plants

5. Foods and Food Additives

Probably one of the most common known "food toxins" for pets is chocolate, but there are many others. Foods to keep away from pets include, but are not limited to: raisins and grapes and products containing xylitol (an artificial sweetener).

More About Human Foods that are Toxic to Pets:
A Poison Safe Home
Human Foods for Cats?
Foods that Can Kill Your Dog
Foods to Avoid
Which Foods are Toxic to Cats and Dogs?

6. Flea and Tick Treatments

No one wants to deal with fleas and ticks and all of the problems they present. However, in the effort to rid your pet of these parasites, caution is advised -- these treatments are also toxins (designed to kill the parasites)! Used at the recommended dosages and protocols, pesticides should be safe for the animals that they are intended to be used on. Using more of the product or not following product recommendations is NOT the way to kill more fleas and ticks; it may seriously harmful or fatal for your pet.

7. Lawn and Garden Herbicides and Pesticides

Use of chemicals on lawns and gardens to control insects and weeds is common for many households. These chemicals are not intended for use on animals, so be sure to allow for proper drying time in the area before releasing pets to roll in, eat, or otherwise have contact with treated areas and plants. Store all containers in safe areas and dispose of empty containers safely. If at all possible, it is best reduce or eliminate the use of yard chemicals. Check with local pest and garden centers -- many now offer non-toxic, organic alternatives for pest and weed control.

8. Household Cleaners and Chemicals

Products used to clean the house, do laundry and dishes, maintain pools and hot tubs, and maintenance products such as paints and lubricants all pose a risk to curious or bored pets. Never assume that because the product is in a spray bottle or can that it is "safe". Newer products will have safety information about the product, often with a phone number to call in the event of ingestion or exposure.