Download our Spot the Pet Poisons in Your Home infographic here.

• Ethylene glycol (antifreeze) products are extremely toxic and, unfortunately, have a sweet taste that is appealing to pets. Ethylene glycol poisoning can lead to kidney failure. Choose propylene glycol-based antifreeze as a safer alternative if possible. If antifreeze is spilled, clean it up immediately (use kitty litter, sand, or saw dust to absorb) or dilute it with several gallons of water.
• Other automotive liquids should also be kept inaccessible. Windshield wiper fluid may contain methanol which can cause severe alcohol poisoning including neurological signs and hypoglycemia. Brake fluid may contain diethylene glycol which can cause poisoning similar to ethylene glycol.
• Any rodenticide product should be stored in a closed cabinet when not in use.  When in use, a pet resistant bait station should be used to enclose the bait and the station should be placed in an area not accessible to your pet.  Even in a bait station, a determined pet can often chew into the bait station and ingest the bait. Rodenticides may cause bleeding disorders, neurological signs, or kidney damage depending on the type. There are also pet safe rodenticides that are corn gluten or cellulose based which would be the best choice as they do not pose significant risk to pets (may cause an upset stomach).
• Gasoline, propane, mineral spirits, paint thinner, motor oil, and similar products contain petroleum distillates. Petroleum distillate can cause skin, mouth, and stomach irritation, and if vomiting occurs, there is a high risk of aspiration (fluid enters lungs). Spills can be cleaned up using kitty litter or sawdust to absorb before sweeping up and disposing of properly
• Metals such as zinc and lead may be found in hardware, fishing weights, etc.  When ingested, poisoning may result causing GI upset, anemia, or neurological signs. Keeping these items securely stored and sweeping the area after use can help prevent accidental ingestion by curious pets.
• Ice melt products containing salts may cause electrolyte imbalances and neurological signs if ingested. Keep locked up and consider a “pet safe” product if possible. The products marketed as “pet safe” typically contain salts other than sodium chloride, although complications from large ingestions are still possible.

Even with the best planning and intentions our pets will occasionally be exposed to toxic substances. If you suspect your pet has been exposed to something harmful call your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline® at 1-855-764-7661 immediately as time is of the essence. It is not always safe to induce vomiting or administer other home remedies. Seek counsel before taking action.