Alcohol Ingestion of “drinking” alcohol (ethanol) occurs when pets take licks of mixed drinks, beer, or wine and also can occur when pets consume candies with liquor centers or raw bread dough made with yeast. Clinical signs of alcohol intoxication in dogs and cats includes rapid onset of neurological signs including lethargy and difficulty walking…

Holiday decorative tinsel and garland may contain zinc, a toxic element when consumed by pets. Ingestion of zinc-coated tinsel can result in vomiting, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, pale gum color due to life-threatening anemia. Ingestion of garland and tinsel, even small amounts, can lead to gastrointestinal blockage and rupture.

Thyroid medications are variable products used to supplement an underactive thyroid gland. Thyroid medications are available in human or animal prescription formulations. Ingestion of an overdose of thyroid medication by companion animals may result in gastrointestinal distress (e.g., vomiting, diarrhea), cardiopulmonary signs (e.g., elevated heart rate and blood pressure, panting), and neurological disturbance (e.g., agitation…

Larkspur contains diterpene alkaloid toxins. Ingestion of larkspur leads to neurological signs of weakness and paralysis. Poisoning is reported primarily in grazing livestock; however, sheep are resistant to Larkspur intoxication.

Dogbane contains cardiac toxins (cardenolides) within the entire plant. Poisoning with signs of colic, diarrhea, weakness, and irregular heart rhythm is reported in horses that consume fresh or dried dogbane. Similar signs may occur in companion animals if a large amount of dogbane is ingested.