Many pets end up at the vet due to easily preventable accidents such as eating toxic plants or dumpster diving. You can greatly increase your furry friend's health by safeguarding your home from these dangers.
Vet visits can are not only expensive,
but can be extremely stressful for pet owners. Our animals can't tell us how they're feeling, so we have to trust the experts and our instincts to help them remain in good health. To help keep your pet healthy and safe in your home, and cut down on the emergency visits, here is how to prevent five common household dangers.
1. Flea Control
When summer comes around, many pet owners reach for the flea collars, spot treatments, and shampoo to keep them and their pets itch-free. Using these products without vet supervision; however, can cost pets their lives. Many over-the-counter medications have been reported to cause severe allergic reactions in cats and dogs. If after applying the medicine your pet starts to behave unusually (excessive licking, trembling, or whining), quickly wash off the product with dish detergent and bring them to the animal hospital.
2. Diet
Animals have different dietary needs than people, and in some cases treats that we enjoy can be extremely harmful to a dog or cat's health. Chocolate, for example, is poisonous to both cats and dogs. And many cats are lactose intolerant, which means cows milk can irritate their stomach and cause internal problems. Avoid accidental poisonings by feeding your pets food designed specifically for them. A vet can also recommend special products for animals with specific problems such as diabetes or sensitive stomach. If you do give treats, choose those formulated for pets or try bits of fresh meat such as lean ham or turkey.
3. Toxins
It's not just what you feed your pet that you have to be cautious about. Pets are naturally curious, and often times snack on plants or lap up liquid from puddles. Unfortunately, their curiosity might get the best of them. Many plants and flowers that are common in homes or yards are toxic such as aloe vera, carnations, ivy, lilies, and oleander. Simply traipsing about in an ivy hill won't likely cause any reactions, but ingesting these plants can cause illness. Common poisoning signs include vomiting, moodiness, tremors, behavioral changes, and drooling.
4. Electricity
Cat and dog owners generally don't have much of an issue with electrical cords, but rodent owners need to exercise caution when letting their fuzzy friends run free in the home. Hamsters, rabbits, and guinea pigs chew constantly, and many will bite into electric cords and wires. Not only can they get a nasty shock, but also they can get electrocuted. Make sure to monitor your pet carefully and hide any wires.
5. Garbage
Dogs (and even some cats) are notorious trash pickers. They smell your leftovers and will knock over unsecured cans for a sneaky treat. Rotten food can be extremely harmful, and there may be other dangerous substances lurking in your garbage. Young pups can be trained out of the habit, but older and stubborn dogs or cats will probably require some simple precautions. Place the can under a closed cupboard, put a weight on the lid, or use a pedal-operated can.
