Protect Your Furry Family Members

No, I’m not talking about your Uncle Vinny. I’m talking about your beloved family members that just so happen to be animals – but aren’t we all? Here are some things to avoid but it is not an all-inclusive list; but you can learn more about toxins by going here: ASPCA Web site.

• Over-the-counter and prescription medications can kill small animals. Because metabolic systems vary between species, a drug that may alleviate pain in humans can easily induce a toxic reaction in a dog or cat. For example, ibuprofen ingested by a dog can cause gastrointestinal damage and kidney dysfunction. Cats are especially susceptible to even small amounts of acetaminophen (the active ingredient in Tylenol); ingestion of just one tablet can result in anemia and potential liver damage.
• Although small amounts of onions and garlic are often used in pet foods and treats to add flavor, ingestion of large amounts can cause severe red blood cell damage; cats are especially sensitive.
• Macadamia nuts can cause a short-term hind-limb paralysis, and bread dough, if eaten before baking, can expand rapidly once ingested and cause ethanol poisoning.
• Sweets, gum and hard candies are often problematic depending on ingredients. Chocolate contains a theobromine, a chemical that can affect the heart, kidneys and central nervous system. Dark chocolate and baker’s chocolate contain higher concentrations of theobromine and are more toxic than similar amounts of milk chocolate.
• Sugar-free gums and candies that contain the sugar-substitute xylitol can lead to quick onset of toxic clinical signs that may include a rapid decrease in blood sugar and possible seizures. KEEP READING AFTER THE JUMP.

• Think carefully before placing mistletoe or holly in low-lying areas, but put poinsettias anywhere you like. The effects of the poinsettia, long believed poisonous, are generally benign, says Dr. Anthony Knight, author of A Guide to Poisonous House and Garden Plants and professor of clinical sciences and toxicology at Colorado State University School of Veterinary Medicine and Biological Sciences.
• Exposed plant bulbs such as Amaryllis and all species of lilies should be placed out of reach of pets not only during the holidays but year-round, Knight says.
• Lily toxicity in cats can reach critical levels almost immediately after ingestion and lead to acute kidney failure within 48 hours or less. “Lilies are one of the most poisonous houseplants that exists,” Knight said. “It’s not just the flower but also the leaves. … If a cat eats any part of the plant, it would need to be treated immediately.”

It is recommended that you call a  local veterinarian or animal emergency hospital first, or the ASPCA national animal poison control center (888-426-4435). The ASPCA charges a $60 veterinary consultation fee, but information about toxins is free on the site listed above. (source)

The moral of the story is to put everything up because you can’t assume an animal can’t get them, so keep the jars closed and keep the toxic items in the cupboard as high as possible. Your animal is a part of your family and in being such, need the same types of care and precaution as you would provide a baby.