Pet poisoning: the most common toxins and what to do
If you saw your pet eat something toxic — or even suspect it — call us first. Time is the biggest factor in outcome for most poisonings. Some toxins have antidotes if treated within hours; others cause delayed but severe damage.
Pet poisoning happens fast and often silently. The most dangerous toxins for pets include chocolate, xylitol (sugar substitute), grapes/raisins, lily plants (cats), rodenticide, marijuana/THC, antifreeze, prescription medications, and household cleaners. Time-to-treatment is critical — some toxins have a narrow window for decontamination.
If your pet ingested a known toxin or you suspect poisoning, call us immediately at (404) 609-1234. Bring the packaging, plant, or any remaining substance. Open 24/7. Do NOT induce vomiting at home unless instructed.
Warning signs — come in immediately
- Vomiting or diarrhea (sometimes bloody)
- Drooling, mouth pawing, or oral burns
- Tremors, seizures, or muscle twitching
- Disorientation, ataxia (drunken walking), or stupor
- Pale, blue, or yellow gums
- Difficulty breathing
- Collapse, weakness, or coma
- Increased thirst and urination
- Witnessed ingestion (do NOT wait for symptoms to appear)
Risk factors & who’s most at risk
- Households with chocolate, candy, or sugar-free gum (xylitol)
- Dogs with access to garbage, counters, or pantries
- Cats in homes with lilies, sago palms, or other toxic plants
- Use of rodenticide or pesticide indoors or outdoors
- Recreational marijuana access (rapidly increasing exposures)
- Open prescription bottles, especially NSAIDs and sleep aids
- Antifreeze leaks or open containers
Emergency treatment at Dogwood
- Immediate triage and assessment
- Decontamination — induced vomiting (when safe), activated charcoal, or gastric lavage
- IV fluids to support kidneys and flush toxins
- Specific antidotes when available (vitamin K for rodenticide, fomepizole for antifreeze, etc.)
- Anti-seizure medications for neurotoxic exposures
- Bloodwork and urine testing to monitor organ function
- Hospitalization in our 24/7 ICU for serious or delayed-onset toxins
What you can do at home & after
- Follow-up bloodwork to monitor liver and kidney function
- Specific aftercare based on the toxin (e.g., extended vitamin K therapy for rodenticide)
- Pet-proof your home: secure medications, plants, garbage, and cleaning products
- Save the ASPCA Animal Poison Control number: (888) 426-4435
- Save the Pet Poison Helpline number: (855) 764-7661
Bring the packaging. When you come in, bring whatever your pet ingested — the wrapper, label, plant, or product. Knowing the exact substance and dose dramatically changes treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Should I make my pet vomit at home?
Only if instructed by a veterinarian or poison control. Some toxins (corrosives, sharp objects, hydrocarbons) cause more damage if vomited up. Call us or poison control first — we’ll guide you safely.
How toxic is chocolate to dogs?
It depends on chocolate type and dog size. Dark and baking chocolate are far more toxic than milk chocolate. Symptoms include vomiting, restlessness, racing heart, and seizures. Always call — we can quickly calculate the toxic dose for your dog.
My cat licked a lily. Is that an emergency?
Yes. Even small amounts of lily (Easter, Tiger, Asiatic, Day) can cause acute kidney failure in cats. The pollen alone is toxic. Come in immediately — treatment within 6 hours dramatically improves outcomes.
How long after exposure do symptoms appear?
It varies by toxin. Some (xylitol, antifreeze) cause symptoms within minutes to hours. Others (rodenticide, acetaminophen) have delayed effects 1–5 days later. If you suspect ingestion, do not wait for symptoms — call us.