15 Common Home Items That Are Dangerous to Your Pets

This post may contain affiliate links.

Keeping in mind that many common household objects are either toxic or just plain dangerous to your pets is one of the most high-priority things for a pet owner to do. Whether it be foods, medications, or plants, many things can harm your beloved furry friends. It is important for people who own pets to educate themselves on some of these potential hazards and to take steps to reduce the risk of injury.

Here are some dangerous household materials to your pets and what you can do about them.

Chocolate

JUNK FOODS THAT ARE BETTER FOR YOU THAN YOU THINK — Photo Credit: Famartin Via Wikimedia Commons

While chocolate is a delicious treat for humans, it contains toxic substances for animals—especially dogs. Theobromine, an ingredient in chocolate, leads to vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, and (in case of a substantial dose) death of the pet. Theobromine is even fatal when ingested from darker chocolates instead of the sweeter variety. Chocolate should be kept away from your dogs.

Medications

Things Frugal Boomers Never Buy — Photo Credit: Pixabay

Pets are the same as humans, and side effects from medications can also occur. Common OTC drugs like ibuprofen or acetaminophen are toxic to animals as well. Never give human prescription medications to pets without consulting a veterinarian.

Cleaning Products

16 Useless Garage Items Taking Up Space You Should Get Rid Of — Photo Credit: Ellie Burgin/Pexels

Many everyday household cleaners can contain harmful toxins for animals if they lick them off the floor and/or breathe them in while administering (bleach, ammonia, toilet bowl cleaner). All these things should be kept somewhere safe, and pet-friendly cleaning supplies should be used when you can.

Candles

Creative Ways to Reuse Old Coffee Grounds — Image Credit: Pixabay

Sure, they can help you create a cozy vibe in your living room, but candles are something that can really hurt your pets. Playful cats or inquisitive dogs can easily tip over a lit candle, resulting in burns or fire. Go with flameless candles, ensure they are in secure holders, and monitor pets if candles are lit.

Xylitol

Xylitol is a sugar substitute in gum, candy, and baked goods that can be deadly for pets. Xylitol consumption can cause low blood sugar, seizures, liver failure, and even death in pets. Store your xylitol-containing products out of reach of pets.

Household Pesticides

Pest control products can be harmful to pets. Exercise extreme caution using these products and always carefully read the instructions. Try to purchase natural remedy instead or do not allow your pets near-treated areas.

Plants

Photo Credit: Sudhirpv/Wikimedia Commons

A study by the National Library of Medicine shows that numerous plants present a toxicity risk when ingested by our pets. Lilies, azaleas, sago palms, and fertilizer bulbs are a few more common all-natural plants that are dangerous to cats. Prevent your pet from swallowing any part of a poisonous plant, and use pet-friendly plants.

Batteries

Any type of battery eaten by a pet can be harmful, as they contain toxic substances. Place batteries far away and discard them safely to avoid your pets unintentionally swallowing these materials.

Alcohol

20 Dangerous Foods Your Doctor Tells You to Avoid, But You Keep Eating Anyway — Photo Credit: Anil Sharma/Pexels

Pets should never be given any alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and liquor. Alcohol consumption can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, problems with breathing, and even coma or death in animals. Store all alcohol away from the reach of your pets.

Human Foods

Image Credit: Michele Krozser via Shopify

While humans can eat a variety of foods that are perfectly safe, some of the food we may turn to for energy boosts might be harmful—or even toxic—to pets. Good examples are grapes, onion avocados, and macadamia nuts. Do some research before sharing any human food with your pet, and take precautions so your pet cannot access these items.

Household Chemicals

Many household chemicals, such as antifreeze and paint thinner, can be toxic to pets if swallowed. To avoid accidental ingestion, keep these chemicals in a safe place and immediately clean up any spills.

Sharp Objects

Remove sharp objects like sewing needles, scissors, and razor blades from your pets’ reach. When animals consume or step on them, the pieces could cause lacerations, punctures, and injuries. Keep them securely in a locked cupboard or drawer.

Electronic Cords

Image Credit: Hitchhiker89 wikimedia commons

According to Jackson REMC, cords can be an irresistible temptation for pets to play with, especially cats or puppies. This move could potentially harm your electronics and give electrical shocks or burns to your pets. Place cords in a place that is inaccessible to your pet, or use cord covers.

Plastic Bags

15 Things That Are Illegal in One U.S State But Legal in Another — Image Credit: Anna Shvets via Pexels

Bones, plastic wraps, and toxic foods that can be found in any house trash are examples of items that poses a threat to our pets. Cover your trash up well and empty it frequently so that a curious pet foragers will not be able to get to the hazardous things.

Trash

Innovative Solutions for Tackling Unpleasant Odors in Your Home — Image credit: Pixabay

Household trash can contain various hazardous pet items, including bones, plastic wraps, and toxic foods. Ensure your trash is securely covered and taken out regularly to prevent curious pets from accessing harmful items.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.