Keeping Your Pet Safe During National Wellness Month: Remove These Dangerous Household Items

October is National Wellness Month, and while we focus on health and well-being for ourselves, it’s the perfect time to prioritize the safety and wellness of our pets too. Our homes are filled with everyday items that may seem harmless to us but can pose serious risks to our furry friends. Here’s a guide to help you pet-proof your home by removing dangerous household items like plants, medications, chemicals, human food, and cleaners.

1. Toxic Plants

Many common houseplants can be toxic to pets if ingested. Some plants to watch out for include:

• Lilies: Extremely toxic to cats, even a small amount can cause kidney failure.

• Aloe Vera: While soothing for humans, it’s poisonous to pets.

• Sago Palms: The seeds are especially dangerous, leading to liver failure.

• Pothos: Popular for its low maintenance, but it can cause oral irritation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing for pets.

To keep your pet safe, research any plants before bringing them into your home and consider swapping out toxic varieties for pet-friendly options like spider plants, Boston ferns, or areca palms.

2. Medications

Both over-the-counter and prescription medications for humans can be highly toxic to pets. Pain relievers like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and prescription drugs like antidepressants and blood pressure medications are particularly harmful. Always store medications securely in cabinets or containers that your pet cannot access. If you accidentally drop a pill, make sure to pick it up right away.

3. Household Chemicals

Cleaning products and other chemicals, such as antifreeze, pesticides, and paint, are hazardous to pets. Even products labeled as “natural” or “green” can be harmful if ingested or inhaled. When using these items, ensure that pets are kept away from the area until it is safe, and store them in secure locations that pets can’t reach. You may also want to switch to pet-safe cleaning solutions when possible.

4. Human Food

Certain human foods are dangerous and even deadly for pets. Some of the most harmful include:

• Chocolate: Contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and cats.

• Grapes and Raisins: These can cause kidney failure, even in small amounts.

• Onions and Garlic: Common in many dishes but harmful to pets, leading to anemia.

• Xylitol: This artificial sweetener found in gum and baked goods can cause rapid insulin release, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in dogs.

Be mindful of where you leave food and keep it out of reach, especially when cooking or eating. Additionally, make sure trash cans are pet-proof to avoid accidental ingestion.

5. Cleaning Products

Many standard cleaning products contain harmful chemicals like ammonia, bleach, and formaldehyde. These can irritate pets’ eyes, skin, and respiratory systems. To ensure your pet's safety:

• Use pet-friendly cleaning alternatives.

• Keep pets out of freshly cleaned areas until surfaces are dry and chemicals are no longer airborne.

• Store all cleaning products in high cabinets or locked areas.

Pet wellness is about creating a safe environment. This National Wellness Month, take the time to evaluate your home and remove or secure any items that could pose a danger to your pets. It’s one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to protect their health and happiness. Remember, prevention is key to a long and healthy life for your furry family members.

If you need help making your home a safer space for pets, Funky Bunch Pet Care is here to offer guidance and professional pet care services that prioritize your pet's wellness every day. Reach out to us today!