If your pet ate something poisonous, every moment becomes critical. In such a scenario, various household items, including cleaners, foods, and certain plants, are dangerous for dogs and cats. Knowing what to do and doing it quickly might just save your pet’s life. That’s why being prepared can make all the difference in an emergency.
This guide from Vets24 Fujairah, a trusted pet veterinary clinic, will lead you through the signs of poisoning, the immediate things you can do to save your pet’s life, and when it’s time to get the animal to the emergency vet.
Some Commonly Toxic Substances For Pets
Things at home that can harm your pet include the following:
Foods
Some of the human foods that can be harmful to pets include:
- Chocolate
- Grapes and raisins
- Onions and garlic
- Alcohol and caffeine
- Xylitol (found in sugar-free gum and candies)
Household Items
Common household products with poisonous properties are:
- Household cleaners
- Medications (even if purchased without a prescription)
- Batteries
- Insecticides and rodenticides
- Paint and glue
Plants
Among the most common houseplants that are harmful are
- Lilies (particularly toxic to cats)
- Aloe vera
- Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
- Pothos
- Sago’s palm
Signs of Toxin Ingestion in Your Pet
These signs can change depending on what your pet ate, but common indications are:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Excessive salivation
- Lethargy or weakness
- Rapid respiratory or heart rate
- Seizures or tremors
- Pale gums
- Anorexia
- Disorientation or unsteady gait
If you think that your pet ate something bad, get help right away.
What To Do Immediately
Take these quick steps to help your pet immediately:
Step 1: Stay Calm but Act Quickly
If you panic, you may delay getting the help your pet needs. Please keep your pet calm and safe from the toxin.
Step 2: Identify the Toxin
Check the labeling or packaging of the concerned product.
Note the approximate ingested amount.
Take a picture for better sharing with a vet.
Step 3: Do Not Induce Vomiting Without Consultant’s Instructions
Do not try to induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by your veterinarian. Some poisonings may worsen upon vomiting.
Step 4: Call a Vet Immediately
Call your local veterinarian or Vets24 Emergency Vet in Fujairah, where trained staff are available 24/7 to tell you the next steps to take and whether urgent care is needed.
When to Bring Your Pet to the Emergency Vet
Immediately take your pet to the clinic if:
- You witnessed them swallowing a toxic substance
- They are exhibiting any symptoms
- You suspect poisoning, but cannot determine what was ingested
- You’re not able to get through the poison control fast enough
Emergency Vet in Fujairah
Vets24, a leading emergency vet clinic in Fujairah, has a state-of-the-art emergency care unit available 24/7 for the treatment of any urgent poisoning case, including IV fluids, detoxification, and more.
Vet Clinic Treatments
Treatment will depend on the toxin being dealt with, and also on how long ago it was consumed. Treatment options by the veterinarian may include:
- Inducing vomiting if it is considered safe
- Administering activated charcoal to bind the toxin
- Starting IV fluids to dilute and eliminate the toxin
- Providing medications for liver, kidney, or neurologic support
- Careful monitoring in a controlled environment
What Not To Do?
Some wrong-doing practices are:
- Do not wait; in most cases, delayed treatment will affect recovery chances negatively.
- Don’t take online countermeasures; you can’t be entirely sure all the advice coming from notable websites is safe.
- Avoid giving milk, oils, or food to dilute the poison; it can make things worse.
What To Keep in a Pet Emergency Kit
Emergency preparation can save your pet’s life. Having a pet emergency kit at home ensures safety. Include items like:
- Hydrogen peroxide( only if advised by a vet)
- Pet-safe activated charcoal ( only if prescribed)
- Emergency vet contact number
- Muzzle or leash
- Gloves
How to Prevent Your Pet From Being Poisoned
Pet-proofing Your House
Lock all medications and chemicals in cupboards.
Never leave food unattended or keep it on the counters.
Remove all toxic plants from your home.
Enlighten Your Family
Make sure that everyone living with you, especially the little ones, knows which objects are harmful to your pets.
Make a Habit of Visiting Your Pet Doctor
Regular visits can help identify any health-related problems at an early stage to keep your pet in top shape every year.
Final Thoughts
Ingesting poisonous materials is one of the most common forms of pet emergencies in the UAE. Every second matters in such a situation when you are trying to save your beloved pet’s life. Recognize the symptoms, respond quickly, and trust the emergency vet care team. Leave your pet’s urgent care in the competent hands of the Vets24 Fujairah team.
With 24/7 support, advanced medical equipment, and experienced professionals ready to act, Vets24 ensures your pet gets the immediate attention they deserve. Whether it’s a minor concern or a life-threatening emergency, having a reliable vet clinic in Fujairah nearby, just like Vets24, can make all the difference.