Caring for animals is not without risks, and there are several household items that could be potentially dangerous for our four-legged friends.
So experts from pet insurance company, Protectivity Insurance, have revealed some of the most common household dangers to pets you need to be aware of.
Indoor plants and fresh cut flowers
Some fresh cut plants and flowers can be toxic to pets.
Lilies can be harmful to dogs and cats, so it’s important to keep them away from poisons.
The electric cables
Pets love to chew, so keep electrical cords well away to prevent mischievous mouths from getting burned.
Cleaners
Many household cleaners contain highly toxic chemicals, these can be dangerous, so you should lock them away from any pets.
The dangers of the garden
Hazardous compounds are not limited to the interior of your home, but weed killers, pesticides, and other garden chemicals pose threats.
The obvious dangers posed by machinery, such as lawn mowers and brush cutters, can also pose a danger to your four-legged friend.
Food
The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) points out that many foods and treats enjoyed by humans can also be toxic to pets.
Sweets like chocolate, nuts and raisins should be avoided.
Medicines, vitamins and supplements
Hopefully you’re used to keeping these things locked up in your medicine cabinet, but double be sure to keep all your own medications, vitamins, and supplements away from curious animals.
Prescription medications for pets
Other medications may have been prescribed for a pet, but be sure to follow the dosage advised by the veterinarian and watch out for the animal trying to scoff the lot all at once.
Batteries
Pay particular attention to loose or discarded batteries.
They can cause nasty internal burns and animal poisoning because of the heavy metals they contain.
Coins
Do not allow pets to swallow parts, not only can they cause internal blockages, some metals in some parts can also be toxic.
plastic bags
Most of us are aware of the dangers of plastic bags suffocating children and the risks are just as great, if not greater, when it comes to pets.
Household appliances
Always keep the doors of washing machines and dryers tightly closed.
Before use, you must check that no animal has crept inside before turning it on.
paper shredders
A particular danger is posed by grinders.
Some can be easily turned on and activated by a curious animal, so keep the power unplugged and only use them when curious animals are out of sight.
Toilet seats down!
Pets are incorrigibly curious, and the curious ones have certainly been known to dive headfirst into the toilet bowl.
Keeping the lid down will help reduce any further discomfort.
It may seem like a long list, but don’t let household pet hazards dampen your excitement.
A little common sense and consideration for the animals in your care should help you avoid the worst of these pitfalls.