Animals are naturally inquisitive and young animals especially frequently ingest inappropriate materials. Below is a brief introduction to such dangers
Toxins in cats
Lilies
- All parts of lilies are toxic to cats
- Causes severe and acute kidney failure
- Can be ingested directly or through pollen contamination being ingested after grooming
Human medications
- Painkillers are especially toxic to cats
Liquid pot pourri
- Will cause burning to the mouth and also respiratory and neurological signs
Glow sticks
- Usually ingested as pet plays with the stick
- Causes drooling , gagging and retching
- Will also cause skin irritation
- Easy to spot chemical to wash it off it glows in a dark room
- More irritant than toxic
Tinsel/string or ribbon
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- Severe damage to the intestinal tract
- Requires surgery to remove if it becomes a “linear foreign body”
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Antifreeze
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- Very palatable to cats- very sweet taste
- Causes calcium crystals to form in the kidneys and kidney failure within a couple of days
- Antidote is only of any use if given within 3 hrs of ingestion
- Poor outlook
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Flea preparations
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- Incorrect applications of dog preparations to cats
- Also cats grooming dogs within the household
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Toxins in Dogs
Puppies are very nosy and inquisitive and will frequently ingest the most inappropriate items. Items such as socks and underwear are frequently on the missing list ! Such items may pass but equally may cause an obstruction which can be life-threatening.
Always contact the surgery for advice if you think your pet has ingested any unsuitable material. Below is a list of materials which are frequently ingested some of which should cause concern and some less so
Toxic- seek immediate advice:-
- Slug pellets
- Chocolate
- Human medicines
- Plant bulbs
- Raisins, onion, avocado, garlic and liquorice
- Rat poison
Low toxicity
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- Polystyrene
- Silica gel
- Wax candles or crayons
- Holly
- Matches
- Antacids, oral contraceptives or HRT
- Bluetac

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