Even though you think your home is the safest place for your pets, it can still have a lot of hidden dangers within its doors. Some things you use every day or some things that are just lying around the house can be dangerous for your pets without you realizing. Understanding these risks can help you keep your pets safe and healthy. Here are 12 hidden pet dangers lurking in your home.
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Toxic Plants
The plants that we keep in our homes or gardens can be quite dangerous for pets, poisonous even. For example, lilies can cause kidney failure in cats and dogs can become dreadfully ill after eating aloe vera. Even a small nibble can cause extreme issues like vomiting and diarrhea. Sometimes these could even kill them. So before you bring in any new plants to the house, make sure they are not toxic to your pets.
Cleaning Products
Cleaning products we use around the house, like bleach, ammonia and drain cleaners, are quite dangerous to your pet. Your pet might even lick a surface cleaned with these products, or drink from a mop bucket. Upon exposure, they can experience burns in their mouth or throat, breathing problems and poisonings. Always store cleaning products safely, use all-purpose cleaner and make sure surfaces are completely safe before allowing pets near it.
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Electrical Cords
Pets, especially puppies and kittens, love to chew and play. They might find electrical cords lying on the floor tempting, but chewing on them is life threatening. Biting into a live cord can lead to electrical burns, electrical shocks, or electrocution. This is why you should hide your cords, or put cord covers on them so your pet does not play with them.
Human Food
Not everything you can eat is something your pet can eat! Pets (especially dogs) cannot tolerate chocolate (both the caffeine and theobromine are toxic to them), grapes, onions, or even some forms of sugar-free candies with xylitol. Just a little of these foods can cause problems like kidney failure or seizures. Always keep toxic foods out of reach & do not feed pets table food unless you know if it is safe.
Medications
Pets should never be given human medications, including over-the-counter drugs such as ibuprofen or cold medicines. Sometimes, even a single pill could induce kidney failure or gastric ulcers. Keep all medications out of reach—either in high cabinets or even locked up—and never leave them out where your pets can get into them.
Trash Cans
Because pets are curious, they may forage through the trash in search of a tasty treat. But, trash cans often have dangerous items like rotten food, bones that splinter or toxic substances like coffee grounds. Always use a pet-proof trash can or keep it somewhere pets can’t access, like under the sink.
Small Objects
Small objects like coins, buttons or small parts of toys can be choking hazards to pets. Any solid objects can also block up their intestines if they swallow them. Pets will quickly get playful or inquisitive and grab something small lying around, so it’s important to make sure there are no small items they can swallow to cause danger.
Pesticides and Insecticides
Using pesticides to get rid of bugs or rodents can be harmful to your pets. Many of these formulas contain harsh chemicals that are poisonous if swallowed or breathed in. Even some flea and tick treatments meant for dogs can be deadly to cats. Always follow safety instructions and try to use pet-friendly alternatives when possible.
Essential Oils
Some essential oils can be highly toxic if ingested, or even absorbed through the skin. for example, tea tree oil, lavender or peppermint. These oils are especially toxic for cats. Essential oils should be kept away in general, and be careful when using diffusers if pets are around.
Washing Supplies (Laundry Detergents, Softeners)
Chemicals in laundry products can be harmful if they come into contact with a pet’s skin. If they are swallowed, they can cause poisoning. Detergent pods are especially dangerous because pets might mistake them for toys or treats. Laundry products should always be stored properly and pets should be kept away from fresh laundry that might have some residue.
Candles and Air Fresheners
Many scented candles and air fresheners actually release chemicals into the air that can be harmful to pets. The vapors can irritate their respiratory systems, especially in small pets like birds. Not only that, but a pet could knock it over – which can result in burning themselves to causing a fire. Always opt for unscented items or pet-safe options, and never leave a pet unattended around lit candles.
Open Windows and Balconies
Pets, especially cats, are at risk of falling from open windows or balconies, even from low heights. They might become curious or lose their balance, leading to injury or worse. Always remember to keep windows closed or safely screened at all times. And never leave pets out on balconies alone.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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