The pet poison reference guide lists common household toxins by category so you can quickly identify dangerous items. If your pet has ingested a toxic substance, call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) immediately.
Emergency Contacts
ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 | Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 (fees may apply)
Or go to the nearest emergency vet immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
What to Do If Your Pet Is Poisoned
Time is critical with poisoning. If you suspect your pet ingested a toxic substance, act within minutes — do not wait for symptoms to appear. Many toxins cause organ damage before any visible signs.
Steps to Take
1. Remove your pet from the source immediately. 2. Identify the substance if possible (bring the container). 3. Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or your veterinarian. 4. Do NOT induce vomiting unless specifically instructed — some toxins cause more damage coming up. 5. Get to an emergency vet if instructed.
Pet-Proofing Your Home
Keep all medications in secured cabinets. Store cleaning products, antifreeze, and pest control products where pets cannot access them. Know which houseplants are toxic to your species — cats and dogs have different sensitivities. Many common plants like lilies (fatal to cats), sago palm, and aloe are commonly found in homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this pet poison reference free?
Yes, completely free with no signup required. This is a reference guide only. If you suspect poisoning, call ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) or your emergency vet immediately.
What common household foods are toxic to dogs?
Highly toxic to dogs: grapes and raisins (kidney failure, even small amounts), xylitol (artificial sweetener in gum, candy, some peanut butters — severe hypoglycemia and liver failure), chocolate (theobromine), macadamia nuts, onions and garlic (all forms — damages red blood cells), alcohol, coffee and caffeine. Call your vet even for small exposures to these.
What plants are toxic to cats?
Extremely toxic to cats: all true lilies (Easter, Tiger, Asiatic, Day lilies) — even small amounts cause acute kidney failure. Also highly toxic: azalea, oleander, sago palm, yew, dieffenbachia, pothos. Outdoor plants: mushrooms (many species), autumn crocus, foxglove. If you have cats, lilies must be completely absent from your home and garden.
What should I do if my pet eats something toxic?
Act immediately: (1) Remove your pet from the source and prevent further ingestion. (2) Do NOT induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a vet — this can make some toxins worse. (3) Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) or your vet immediately with the product name/plant name and estimated amount eaten. (4) Bring the package or a photo of the plant to the vet.
Is chocolate really that dangerous for dogs?
Yes. Theobromine in chocolate is processed much more slowly by dogs than humans. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the most dangerous (highest theobromine per ounce). Milk chocolate requires larger amounts to cause serious toxicity but can still cause vomiting, diarrhea, elevated heart rate, and seizures. The dose matters: a small dog eating a large amount of dark chocolate is a genuine emergency.