Think your pet was exposed to something harmful?
If you think your pet may have eaten something toxic, act fast.
Early treatment is often simpler, more effective, and could save your pet’s life. Call our emergency line (479) 903-0060 right away. You can also reach out to the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 or visit petpoisonhelpline.com.
Some of the most common pet dangers
🧪 Toxic Substances
🦠 Parasites and Diseases
🧪 Toxic Substances
Human foods:
- Chocolate, grapes/raisins, onions/garlic, xylitol (in sugar-free gum), alcohol, caffeine
Medications:
- Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen), antidepressants, ADHD meds
Plants:
- Lilies (highly toxic to cats), poinsettias, aloe vera, philodendron, sago palms
Cleaning products & chemicals:
- Bleach, antifreeze (ethylene glycol), rodenticides, insecticides
⚡ Physical Hazards
🦠 Parasites and Diseases
🧪 Toxic Substances
Choking/swallowing:
- Small toys, socks, string/yarn (especially dangerous for cats)
Electrical cords:
- Can cause shocks or burns
Sharp objects:
- Needles, broken glass, scissors
Heights:
- Open windows or balconies without screens (especially for cats)
🦠 Parasites and Diseases
🦠 Parasites and Diseases
🦠 Parasites and Diseases
Fleas, ticks, heartworms:
- Can lead to anemia, Ehrlichia, Cytaux (Bob Cat Fever), heartworm disease, just to name a few.
Unvaccinated exposure:
- Rabies, Parvovirus, Distemper, Leptospirosis, and others.
☀️Hot Weather
❄️ Cold Weather
🦠 Parasites and Diseases
Temperature (°F)
70–80 = Moderate
For long exposure: shade and water required
80–90 = High
Risk of heat exhaustion begins; limit outdoor time and walks.
90–103 = Very High
Heatstroke risk; never leave in cars; avoid exercise.
104+ = Dangerous
Life-threatening in minutes, even in shade or with water.
Special risks:
- Asphalt temps can exceed
Temperature (°F)
70–80 = Moderate
For long exposure: shade and water required
80–90 = High
Risk of heat exhaustion begins; limit outdoor time and walks.
90–103 = Very High
Heatstroke risk; never leave in cars; avoid exercise.
104+ = Dangerous
Life-threatening in minutes, even in shade or with water.
Special risks:
- Asphalt temps can exceed 130°F—test with your hand: if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them.
- Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds (like pugs, bulldogs) overheat quickly.
- Dark-coated pets absorb more heat .
❄️ Cold Weather
❄️ Cold Weather
❄️ Cold Weather
Temperature (°F)
45+ = Low
Safe for most healthy pets, but short trips for small breeds preferred.
32–45 = Moderate
Small, elderly, or short-haired pets may need a sweater or jacket.
20–31 = High
Risk of hypothermia or frostbite; limit outdoor time, use booties & coats.
Below 20 = Dangerous
Bring pets indoors; prolonged exposure can be life-threa
Temperature (°F)
45+ = Low
Safe for most healthy pets, but short trips for small breeds preferred.
32–45 = Moderate
Small, elderly, or short-haired pets may need a sweater or jacket.
20–31 = High
Risk of hypothermia or frostbite; limit outdoor time, use booties & coats.
Below 20 = Dangerous
Bring pets indoors; prolonged exposure can be life-threatening.
Special risks:
- Paws can get frostbite or chemical burns from de-icers
- Water bowls can freeze
- Shelter must be insulated and windproof if outdoor access is unavoidable
Holidays
❄️ Cold Weather
❄️ Cold Weather
Almost all ornamental plants are toxic to some degree. While some have been exaggerated (poinsettia), there is still potential for a toxic reaction from the ingestion of any of these plants.
Decorations can be another danger especially to cats or dogs that are chewers. Shiny tinsel can be irresistible to playful cats and can cause serious
Almost all ornamental plants are toxic to some degree. While some have been exaggerated (poinsettia), there is still potential for a toxic reaction from the ingestion of any of these plants.
Decorations can be another danger especially to cats or dogs that are chewers. Shiny tinsel can be irresistible to playful cats and can cause serious intestinal obstruction.
Many of our favorite holiday foods are toxic to our pets. The most common toxicity involves chocolate. Theobromine and caffeine in chocolate are toxic ingredients and a rule "the darker the chocolate, the more toxic it is." Other foods such as raisins, bones, and fatty trimmings from ham or turkey, macadamia nuts, and other rich foods can cause problems.