Common Items That Are Poisonous To Cats

Curious cats and kittens love to explore their homes, poking their noses into cabinets and closets. But many common household items are poisonous to cats. Every pet owner should be aware of these household hazards and keep them away from cats. If your feline friend gets into one of these poisonous items and you live in the West Des Moines area, call Ashworth Road Animal Hospital as soon as possible.

Plants

They might bring a pop of color and nature to your home, but many house plants and flowers are toxic to cats. Unfortunately, cats love to chew and paw at plants, so pet owners should keep the following varieties out of their homes.

• Lilies
• Tulips
• Daffodils
• Philodendrons
• Foxglove
• Aloe
• Poinsettias
• Mistletoe
• Azalea
• Chrysanthemums

Cleaning Products & Chemicals

Whether they are in the garage or the laundry, every home has bottles of cleaning products and chemicals. Many of these products have a sweet aroma or flavor that cats crave. Unfortunately, the answer here isn’t as simple as not having these items on hand, since many of these items are household essentials. Cat owners should lock their cleaning products in cabinets or spots that cats can not access. In particular, be aware of these items that are poisonous to cats.

• Bleach
• Laundry detergent
• Drain cleaner
• Toilet bowl cleaner
• De-icing salt
• Antifreeze
• Fertilizer
• Insecticide
• Rat poison

Human Food

When your cat is looking up with pleading eyes while you are having a snack, it’s difficult not to share. Many human foods are poisonous to cats. Cat owners should keep their pets on a regular diet of high-quality food and ensure that the cat never eats these human foods.

• Onions
• Chives
• Garlic
• Raisins
• Chocolate
• Grapes
• Alcohol
• Caffeine in tea, soda, coffee, or energy drinks

Call in an Emergency!

If your cat has eaten something poisonous, it is important to see an emergency vet quickly. Our veterinarians at Ashworth Road Animal Hospital will help your pet if you suspect it has eaten something toxic. Call us today at (515) 225-1807 to learn more about potential household threats to your cat. If your pet has eaten something toxic after hours then go to a 24/7 emergency clinic such as Blue Pearl of Iowa or Iowa Veterinary Specialties.