Common Household Items That Are Dangerous for Pets

At Petzania, we know your pets are part of the family, so keeping them safe is a top priority. While your home might seem like a haven, it can hide some surprising pet hazards. Here’s our easy-to-read guide to dangerous household items for pets, with practical pet safety tips to keep tails wagging and whiskers twitching safely!

1.      Human Foods

Some foods we love are actually poisonous to dogs and cats, even in small amounts. The biggest culprits include chocolate, grapes and raisins, onions and garlic, avocados, macadamia nuts, and anything containing xylitol (often found in sugar-free gum and peanut butter). Leftovers like cooked bones can equally be as dangerous as they can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries. Always keep these household poisons out of reach and never feed your pet scraps from the table.

2.      Cleaning Products

Bleach, ammonia, disinfectants, and oven cleaners can all be highly toxic to pets if licked or swallowed. Even walking on a freshly cleaned floor and then licking their paws can make pets ill. Store all cleaning products securely and keep pets away while you’re cleaning to maintain a pet-friendly home.

3.      Medicines

Both human and veterinary medicines can be dangerous if pets get into them. Painkillers like paracetamol and ibuprofen, cold and flu tablets, and even vitamins (especially those containing xylitol or iron) can cause serious harm. Always keep medicines in closed cabinets and never leave pills lying around. If you suspect your pet has eaten something they shouldn’t, contact your vet for advice straight away.

4.      Batteries and Electronics

Batteries, remote controls, and children’s toys can be tempting to chew, but if punctured or swallowed, they can cause chemical burns or blockages. These are common household items that are dangerous for pets, so keep all batteries and small electronics out of paw’s reach.

5.      Plants and Flowers

Many common houseplants and garden flowers are toxic to pets. Lilies, daffodils, hyacinths, oleander, and yew are just a few that can cause anything from tummy upsets to life-threatening illness. If you’re not sure if a plant is safe, check before bringing it home to keep your pet safe.

6.      Rodent and Insect Poisons

Rat and mouse baits, ant powders, and slug pellets are all highly toxic to pets. Even if you hide them well, pets can sniff them out. Opt for pet-safe alternatives or keep pets well away from treated areas to avoid a pet emergency.

7.      Personal Care Products

Toothpaste (especially those with xylitol), mouthwash, essential oils, and even some lotions and creams can be harmful if licked or chewed. Store these items in drawers or cupboards and never use human products on your pets.

8.      Small Household Items

Coins, rubber bands, string, and plastic bags can all be choking hazards or cause blockages if swallowed. Keep these items off the floor and out of reach, especially if you have a curious puppy or kitten.

9.      Alcohol and Caffeine

Alcoholic drinks, coffee, tea, and energy drinks are all dangerous household items for pets. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and more serious symptoms like tremors or seizures.

10. Fabric Softener Sheets and Dryer Sheets

These smell lovely but contain chemicals that can be toxic if chewed or swallowed. Dryer sheets contain chemicals like cationic detergents that can cause irritation and burns to the mouth, oesophagus and stomach lining.  They can also cause gastrointestinal issues, including vomiting, diarrhoea, and in severe cases, ulcers and even kidney failure.  Always keep laundry products away from pets and dispose of used sheets in a secure bin.

Final thought: Store all dangerous items in cupboards or on high shelves, keep bins covered and out of reach, be mindful of what’s left on tables and counters, and check your home and garden for toxic plants. If you think your pet has eaten something dangerous, contact your vet immediately.

For more pet safety tips and advice, keep visiting our blog and keep your home a happy, healthy place for every member of the family - furry ones included!