Use this list to help recognize potentially dangerous foods and substances in your home.

When pet proofing your home, be sure to get down to your pet’s level to see their point of view. While everything may look safe from your perspective, your pet may be able to get into areas you can’t see.

Also, keep your pet confined to a For even more information, see Petside’s original video on Household Dangers

Dangerous Foods

Alcoholic beverages

Artificial sweetener (xylitol)

Avocado

Bones

Chocolate

Coffee

Fatty foods

Garlic

Grapes

Macadamia nuts

Nuts still in shell

Onions and onion powder

Raisins

Salt

Spoiled foods

Yeast dough

Unsafe Outdoor Substances

Animal toxins (venomous toads, insects, spiders, snakes and scorpions)

Antifreeze

Blue-green pond algae

Citronella candles

Cocoa mulch

Compost piles

Fertilizers

Fly baits containing methomyl

Ice melting products

Outdoor plants and plant bulbs

Swimming-pool treatment supplies

Slug and snail baits containing metaldehyde

Dangerous Medications

Anti-cancer drugs

Antidepressants

Cold medicines

Diet Pills

Pain killers

Vitamins

Household Hazards

Batteries

Electrical cords

Fabric softener sheets

Flea products

Lilies

Liquid potpourri

Mothballs

Pennies (Especially Post-1982 because of a high concentration of zinc)

Pine oil cleaners

Polyurethane Glue

Poisoned pests

Rubber bands

Rat and mouse bait

String

Yarn

Holiday Hazards

Christmas tree water

Glass ornaments

Ribbons or tinsel

Substances that are not poisonous, but may cause gastrointestinal upset:

Cat litter

Glue traps

Glow jewelry

Poinsettia

Silica gel

Toilet bowl water

Water-based paints

What to Do if Your Pet is Poisoned

If you suspect your pet has been poisoned, call your vet immediately. Determine what substance was ingested and read the product’s label for a list of ingredients and any instructions in case of accidental ingestion. If your pet is vomiting or has diarrhea, you should bring a sample of the product to help your vet determine the correct treatment.

You should also keep a fully stocked pet first-aid kit in your home as well as an emergency handbook. Be sure you are up to date on your pet’s age, weight and allergies.

If you need help, you can also call the National Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. There may be fees for this service.

To read about common pet illnesses, check out Petside's Pet Vet Symptom Finder

For answers to more health questions, visit Dr. Lauren's Q&A