Household Pet Hazards

Learn how to spot and create a safer home for your pets.

Dog in crate with pink toy

A Safer Home Starts With Awareness

Everyday household products, foods, and plants can pose serious health risks to pets. Fortunately, many accidents can be prevented with simple precautions and proper storage.

Knowing what to avoid is one of the best ways to keep your pet healthy and protected.

Common Household Hazards

Kitchen Hazards

Many foods that are safe for people can be toxic to pets.

Keep pets away from:

  • Chocolate
  • Coffee and tea
  • Grapes and raisins
  • Onions and garlic
  • Avocado
  • Alcohol
  • Yeast dough
  • Fatty or salty foods
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Products containing xylitol (artificial sweetener)

Always secure trash bins, as spoiled food can also cause serious illness.

Cleaning Products

Household cleaners should always be stored safely and used according to label instructions.

Take extra care with:

  • Bleach
  • Disinfectants
  • Laundry detergents
  • Products containing phenols (especially around cats)

Allow treated surfaces to dry completely before letting pets enter the area.

Flea, Tick & Rodent Control Products

Pesticides and rodenticides can be extremely dangerous if used incorrectly.

Remember to:

  • Never use dog-only flea products on cats.
  • Store rat and mouse poisons where pets cannot access them.
  • Follow all product directions carefully.
  • Ask your veterinarian before using unfamiliar products.

Bathroom Hazards

Human Medications

Many common medications can be toxic—even in small amounts.

Keep all medications securely stored, including:

  • Ibuprofen and naproxen
  • Acetaminophen
  • Prescription medications
  • Cold and allergy medicines
  • Vitamins and supplements
  • Diet pills
  • Antidepressants

Never give your pet human medication unless instructed by your veterinarian.

Personal Care Products

Store these items safely away from curious pets:

  • Toothpaste
  • Sunscreen
  • Soap
  • Cosmetics

Keep toilet lids closed to prevent pets from drinking treated water.

Keeping Your Pets Safe Around the Home

Living Areas & Bedrooms

Several everyday household items can become dangerous if chewed or swallowed.

Watch for:

  • Potpourri
  • Mothballs
  • Tobacco products
  • Batteries
  • Coins (especially newer pennies)
  • Small toys
  • Jewelry
  • Buttons and screws

Electrical cords should also be covered or kept out of reach to prevent burns or electrocution.

Garage & Yard Hazards

Many garage and lawn products are highly toxic to pets.

Store safely:

  • Antifreeze
  • Fertilizers
  • Weed killers
  • Insecticides
  • Gasoline
  • Ice melt products
  • Paints and solvents

After treating your lawn, keep pets away until the product is completely dry and safe according to manufacturer guidelines.

Toxic Plants

Some common indoor and outdoor plants can cause serious illness.

Examples include:

  • Lilies (especially dangerous for cats)
  • Sago Palm
  • Oleander
  • Foxglove
  • Azaleas
  • Rhododendrons
  • Tulips
  • Castor Bean
  • Philodendron
  • Pothos
  • English Ivy
  • Peace Lily
  • Hydrangea
  • Mushrooms and
  • certain fungi

If you're unsure whether a plant is safe, ask your veterinarian before bringing it into your home or garden.

Holiday Safety Tips

Holiday celebrations often introduce extra hazards for pets.

Be mindful of:

  • Chocolate and candy
  • Foods containing xylitol
  • Fatty table scraps
  • Cooked bones
  • Tinsel, ribbons, ornaments, and string
  • Holly and mistletoe
  • Christmas tree water
  • Decorative plants

Keeping decorations and festive foods out of reach helps prevent emergency visits.

Bird Owners: Extra Precautions

Birds are especially sensitive to airborne chemicals and fumes.

Avoid exposing them to:

  • Aerosol sprays
  • Tobacco smoke
  • Paint fumes
  • Strong adhesives
  • Air fresheners
  • Cooking fumes

Never house birds in or near the kitchen while cooking.

If You Think Your Pet Has Been Poisoned

Don't wait. Quick action can save your pet's life.