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Everyday objects that are hazardous to pets

Denise Flaim | Animal House

July 17, 2008

Call them the cupboard killers.

There are plenty of everyday objects around your home that could pose a threat to your companion animals.

Here are just a handful.

1. TURN DOWN THE HEAT

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Who knew Teflon could kill? Overheating nonstick cookware releases toxic fumes that can reach companion birds in minutes, with deadly results. And remember that pots and pans are not the only culprits: Teflon coating is used on everything from irons to space heaters.

SEA AND AIR

Open toilet seats and ceiling fans have also contributed to avian deaths. Always check your home before allowing an unclipped bird to exit his cage.

2. DOUBLE YOUR PARANOIA

Xylitol, a sugar substitute used in many chewing gums, can cause a deathly drop in blood sugar in dogs. Evidence suggests that high doses may induce liver failure. Even a few sticks can cause serious damage in a small-breed dog.

IF IN DOUBT ... Get to the vet. Early intervention can make the difference between life and death in many cases.

3. UNPLUG!

We can be somewhat cavalier with paper shredders, leaving them plugged in and easily accessible. But there are many documented reports of dogs getting their tongues stuck in these common home-office appliances, and some did not survive. Never leave a shredder plugged in when not in use.

BZZZZT!

Electric cords and computer cables need to be protected against curious chewers such as rabbits; young puppies may also vent their mouthiness on them. Try encasing them in spiral cable wrap or plastic tubing.

4. GREAT GRAPE DEBATE

Grape and raisin toxicity is a recently identified phenomenon in dogs. In some, ingesting even small amounts can lead to kidney failure; other dogs seem unaffected, leading some experts to wonder if a genetic propensity is the cause. Either way, better safe than sorry: Take grapes and raisins off your dog's snack menu.

NUTTY FACT

Ingesting macadamia nuts can cause vomiting, muscle tremors, even temporary paralysis in dogs. The chance of recovery is very good, however, and most dogs return to normal within 24 to 48 hours.

5. OUT, OUT, DANGED COLLAR

All flea and tick products are not created equal. Cats have exquisitely sensitive metabolisms, and products formulated for dogs may be toxic to them. Make sure any brand of collar or preventive is approved for use on cats.

SCAT, CAT!

You can harness a cat's exquisite sensitivity to certain compounds to keep it away from off-limit areas. Most cats dislike citrus, and a few dabs of essential oil of lemon or orange dabbed on upholstery it has taken a liking to shredding just might do the trick. Never apply essential oils on cats - their metabolisms are just too reactive.

6. HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW?

Cats are inveterate nibblers, so strive to keep your house and garden free from poisonous plants, from amaryllis to wisteria. For a complete list, visit cfa.org/articles/plants.html.

Minty fresh Some plants make cats positivity euphoric. One is nepeta, also known as catmint. Cats will roll joyously in the gray-green foliage.

7. CORN FED - NOT

Dogs are famous for swallowing what they should not, from underwear to rocks. One tempting summertime item - corn on the cob - poses a lethal threat. The cob is not digestible, and if swallowed needs to be surgically removed. Because these butter-soaked barbecue staples are enticing, be sure to dispose of them securely.

GARAGE CHECK

Because of its sweet taste, antifreeze also is a deadly temptation to cats and dogs. Check for leaking bottles or unsecured caps wherever you store these substances.