Top Toxins for Poison Prevention

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

by from the June 2011 issue of Groomer to Groomer magazine

Tips on the most common items that can put pets at risk.

The following are some of the most common toxins the veterinarians at Pet Poison Helplline encounter and strongly recommend keeping away from pets.

Many sugarless gums, including some Trident, Orbit, and Ice Breaker brands as well as candies contain xylitol, a sweetener which is toxic to dogs.

Desserts and baked goods can also be made with xylitol. Even small amounts when ingested can result in a life-threatening drop in blood sugar, or with large amounts of ingestion, liver failure. Signs of low blood sugar include vomiting, weakness, difficulty walking, tremors, and seizures. Treatment includes decontamination, checking a blood glucose/sugar level, treating with IV fluids and glucose, liver monitoring tests, and drugs to protect the liver.

Common human drugs including NSAIDs (i.e. Advil, Aleve, and Motrin), acetaminophen (i.e. Tylenol) and antidepressants (i.e. Effexor, Cymbalta, Prozac, and Lexapro) can cause serious harm for your pets. NSAIDs may cause pets to develop serious stomach and intestinal uscers as well as kidney failure. Acetaminophen may cause damage to a cat's red blood cells, limiting their ability to carry oxygen. In dogs, it leads to liver failure and in large doses, red blood cell damage. Lastly, antidepressant overdoses can lead to neurological problems such as sedation, lack of coordination, agitation, tremors and seizures.

As beautiful as they are; some flowers can cause toxicity in animals - and some are even deadly. Certain types of lilies - including tiger, day, Asiatic, Easter, and Japanese lilies are highly toxic to cats. Severe kidney failure can result from ingestion of even a few petals, leaves, or even the pollen. In addition, ingestion of certain spring bulbs (i.e. daffodils, tulips, etc) can cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. More serious reactions include abnormal heart rate or changes in breathing.

While the occasional chocolate chip within one cookie may not be an issure, certain types of chocolate can be very toxic. Baker's chocolate and dark chocolate pose the biggest problem. Other sources include chewable, flavored multi-vitamins, baked goods, or chocolate-covered espresso beans. The chemical toxicity is due to methylxanthines (a relative of caffeine), and results in vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, an abnormal heart rhythm, seizures, and possibly death. In smaller dogs, even the wrappers from candy can result in a secondary obstruction in the stomach or intestines.

Many fertilizers are basic gastro-intestinal irritants. However, some are often combined with dangerous chemicals and compounds called organophosphates or carbamates, which can be harmful to pets. Ingestion can result in drooling, watery eyes, urination, defecation, seizures, difficulty breathing, fever and even death. Immediate treatment with an antidote is necessary to improve a pet's chance of survival.

Rodent, snail, and slug baits are often used to keep pests at bay. However, if ingested, these poisons are extremely harmful to pets. They are highly toxic and, without immediate veterinary attention, can be fatal. Rodent baits typically can result in blood clotting disorders, brain swelling or kidney failure, depending on which type is used, while snail and slug baits can result in severe tremors or seizures.

The best thing any concerned pet owner can do is be educated on common, everyday toxins and pet-proof their homes. When in doubt, if you think a pet has been poisoned, contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline at 800-213-6680 with any questions or concerns.

About Pet Poison Helpline

Pet Poison Helpline is a service available 24 hours, seven days a week for pet owners and veterinary professionals who require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. Pet Poison Helpline's experts can provide treatment advice for poisoning cases in all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals and exotic species. as the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline's fee of $35 per incident includes all follow-up consultation. Pet Poison Helpline is available in the US and Canada by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.

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