10 Pet Dangers You Don't Know About

I don't know too many dogs that bring you their bowls when you bust out the grapes or raisins, but there are some who will eat the fruit of the vine. This is a problem because when eaten in large amounts, grapes and raisins can cause renal failure. According to Dr. Tina Wismer, Medical Director of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, "They haven't identified the actual toxin, but we do know that it's toxic to the cells in the dog's kidney." It is especially important to keep track of those boxes of raisins you might happen to hand your kids. One or two raisins or grapes won't cause a problem, but if a dog can get into a sizable box or bunch, you can have a serious problem. If you notice any vomiting or diarrhea, call a vet immediately.

It's safe to say that you should never season your dog or cat's food with soup mix. Like with grapes and raisins, a small amount of either of these things won't cause harm. "But if they get into the French onion soup, there's enough onions and garlic to cause anemia and destroy their red blood cells," says Dr. Wismer. Symptoms can include decreased appetite, blood in the urine, and depression. If your dog flashes you those irresistible big doggie eyes when begging for a human food treat, stick to meat, chicken, lamb, rice, or other things you might find in their food.

When it comes to Hawaiian delicacies, your dog may love a bit of the pig roast, but stay away from the Macadamia nuts. Surprisingly, Macadamia nuts cause dogs to become paralyzed in their hind legs. Fortunately, it goes away in 12-24 hours, and there are no long term problems. But it is very scary for your furry friend! Think how you'd feel if you woke up and suddenly couldn't move your legs? Do your dog a favor and skip the nuts.

Many of us dearly love our dogs and cats, but not the smell that can come with them. As such, we turn to various air freshening products. Be careful if you use those liquid simmering potpourris. Holistic Veterinarian, Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM states that, "The oil has a compound that actually causes chemical burns if your cat or dog gets it on its skin or mouth. Dr. Wismer further suggests that if your dog or cat does get into the liquid simmering potpourri,  promptly wash them in whatever you use to hand-wash dishes (you need something that can cut the oil), and of course call your vet immediately.

If you have a pack of gum or mints nearby, take a look at the label. Chances are it contains something called Xylitol. This is a popular artificial sweetener that is not only a common ingredient in many check-stand treats and breath fresheners, but it's also purchased in powder form for cooking. If dogs get into the Xylitol, it will cause insulin secretion, dropping your dog's blood sugar and causing seizures.

Sago palms are a beautiful addition to any landscape, but behind the feeling of tropical relaxation awaits a grave risk to your dog. If ingested, typically by a dog chewing on the root, your dog can suffer liver failure and death.  If you notice your dog start to foam or drool from the mouth, take immediate medical action. These plants are also toxic to humans, so if you're getting a new house, you may want to skip the Sago Palms for the sake of both pets and people.

Chocolate and chocolate products can essentially be seen as the amphetamines of the dog world. They can cause your dog to vomit, get diarrhea, and become hyperactive beyond its typical doggie hyperactivity. It does take a lot of chocolate to poison a pooch, and some people may not see the harm in succumbing to your dog's begging for a piece of milk chocolate. The problem is that if your dog develops a taste for the stuff, he may try to get into the box of baker's chocolate in the cupboard, and that's when you have a serious poisoning risk. So if your pooch begs for a bite of your candy bar, remember to "just say no."

Many people know that antifreeze is toxic to pets (and humans). But when keeping your dogs and cats away from harsh chemicals, also keep an eye out for some floor cleaners which can contain nasty substances such as perchloroethylene and formaldehyde. Please remember that your darling doggie lives on the floor, and very often eats from it. You wouldn't serve your dog a piece of hamburger coated in formaldehyde, so try to avoid leaving a residue of harsh chemicals on your floor. If you can use a natural floor cleaner, that is best. And if your dog appears drunk, which can be a sign of chemical poisoning, take immediate medical action.

Would you take your cat's fur-ball medication if you felt a tickle in your throat? Of course you wouldn't, it wasn't made for your system. The same logic applies to giving pets human meds. There are some medicines such as Benadryl that can be administered with a veterinarian's direction. But one of the leading causes of poisoning in pets is through human medications. Dr Wismer mentions that, "Last year the ASPCA had 167,000 cases of possible animal poisoning. About a quarter of them were human medication calls, with ibuprofen being the leading one." Remember that your pet has a different system than a human, and our medications often do more harm than good.

Easter, Stargazer, and other types of lilies are beautiful, but unfortunately they are also extremely deadly to your cat, as well as to your dog. Just one leaf ingested can cause poisoning! If your cat seems weak, doesn't seem to be urinating, or vomits, get to a vet immediately. There is a very high mortality rate with lily poisoning. If you want to get a nice plant for a feline lover, consider catnip!

Even with the best vigilance, there's always a chance of our pets getting into household hazards. But by knowing and controlling some of these hidden household dangers, you can do a lot to create a safe environment for your beloved dog or cat. You know they'd do the same for you.