Much changes for the better when pets are brought into a household. When a pet joins the family, members now have a companion to enthusiastically greet them when they return home from work or school.
Pets require attention and routine vet visits to stay healthy. Homeowners may need to assess their living areas to ensure that the spaces are as safe as possible for new pets, as there are many potential hazards around the typical home. Unfortunately, those hazards may not be obvious to new pet owners. The following are just a handful of potential pet hazards in a typical home.
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Food hazards
Kitchens can be tricky spaces for pets. Cleaners that contain chemicals tend to be stored in kitchens, where hot appliances are periodically on as well. The kitchen also is where people prepare food, including some that could be unsafe for pets. Many foods that are safe for people are not safe for pets, and these include:
Alcoholic beverages
Avocado
Caffeine
Chocolate
Fatty foods
Garlic
Grapes and raisins
Onions
Xylitol (a sweetener)
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Chemical products
Chemical products may be unsafe to use around pets. It's important to read labels and use products accordingly.
Bleach
Phenols
Cleaning products (use all with caution)
Antifreeze
Lawn fertilizers
Ice melt
Mothballs
Liquid potpourri
Paints and solvents
Fabric softener sheets
Pest baits
Swimming pool chemicals
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Plants and flowers
While they may be natural and beautiful, plants and flowers can potentially prove hazardous to pets. The level of toxicity may vary depending on the animal that consumes the plant.
Almond, apricot, cherry, nectarine, peach, and plum trees
Aloe vera
Chrysanthemum
Cyclamen
English ivy
Foxglove
Hibiscus
Hydrangea
Oleander
Poinsettia
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Additional hazards
Ovens, gas or electric burners
Corded appliances
Candles
Ornaments and glass items
Laundry (ingested socks or other items can cause obstructions)
Small toys
Caution is necessary when welcoming pets into a home, as a typical living space contains numerous items that can prove harmful to animals.