If you believe your dog or cat may have been exposed to a toxic substance, call us right away at 909-303-1700. Remove the possible toxin from your pet’s reach, keep a sample if you can do so safely, and do not try to make your pet vomit or give a home remedy without a veterinarian’s advice. We can provide urgent guidance and prepare for your arrival.
What can poison a dog or cat?
Dogs and cats can be exposed to toxic foods, medications, household chemicals, and plants. Some substances that are safe for people can be dangerous for pets, which is why it helps to know what is in your home, garage, and yard.
On our emergency page, we identify several examples of possible toxic exposures:
- Foods: Raisins, grapes, garlic, onions, coffee, and chocolate.
- Medications: Prescription and over-the-counter medications, including aspirin, Tylenol, ibuprofen, and naproxen.
- Household chemicals: Fertilizers, cleaning products, automotive chemicals, and antifreeze.
- Plants: Azaleas, rhododendrons, sago palms, and lilies.
We encourage pet owners to store potential poisons in locked cabinets. Check driveways for leaking automotive fluids as well, since antifreeze can have a sweet taste that can attract dogs and cats.
What are the signs of poisoning in dogs and cats?
Pets exposed to a toxin do not always show obvious signs. When signs do occur, they can include:
- Inappetance
- Weakness or lethargy
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Seizures or tremors
- Bruising
- Unexplained bleeding, including from the nose or in the feces
- Anxiety or restlessness
- Altered mentation
- Irregular heartbeat
- Respiratory or cardiovascular problems
These signs are not a diagnosis on their own. They are reasons to contact a veterinarian when you are concerned that your pet may have been exposed to a toxin.
What should I do if I think my pet was poisoned?
Start by removing the possible toxin from your pet’s reach. If possible, keep a sample for our emergency veterinarians.
Do not attempt to make your dog or cat vomit. Do not give any home remedy unless a veterinarian has advised you to do so.
Then call us at 909-303-1700 for immediate advice or to let us know you are on the way. If you need help bringing your pet from the car into the hospital, let us know when you call.
What happens when you arrive?
Your dog or cat will be evaluated immediately to assess their condition. Patients in critical condition are prioritized and treated first. After your pet is stabilized, a member of our crew will take a thorough history about the situation.
The emergency doctor will meet with you, discuss your pet’s condition, perform a more thorough examination, and review options for diagnostic testing and treatment. If your pet is hospitalized, we will provide regular updates on their condition.
Emergency care for suspected poisoning
When you are concerned about a possible toxic exposure, we are here to help you take the next step. Call 909-303-1700 for guidance or to let us know you are coming. We are located at 1582 N Benson Ave, Upland, CA 91786.
Frequently asked questions
Should I bring the substance my pet may have eaten or touched? If you can do so safely, keep a sample of the possible toxin for our emergency veterinarians.
Should I make my pet vomit after a possible poisoning? No. Do not try to make your dog or cat vomit or give a home remedy without a veterinarian’s advice.
Will my pet be seen right away? Your pet will be evaluated immediately when they arrive. Patients in critical condition are prioritized and treated first.
Medical disclaimer
This article provides general educational information and is not a substitute for examination, diagnosis, or treatment by a veterinarian. If you are concerned that your pet may have been exposed to a toxin, contact MarQueen Veterinary Specialty Group or your family veterinarian.
