ASPCA Issues Alert To Pet Owners During National Poison Prevention Week

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Friday, 8 March 2002

Chocolate, pennies, lilies and many common household items can poison pets.

The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is sending a coast-to-coast alert to pet owners during National Poison Prevention Week (March 17 to 23) about common household products that can be dangerous and even deadly to pets. Thousands of cats and dogs needlessly suffer and many die each year by accidental ingestion of household poisons, including popular houseplants and common foods.

"Most pet owners simply do not know that chocolate, onions, pennies and liquid potpourri can be dangerous to pets," comments Dr. Steven Hansen, Senior Vice President of The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. "Many cats are poisoned in the spring from plants including daffodils and lilies. A cat that eats any part of an Easter lily will die unless it receives prompt medical attention," says Hansen. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center advises cat owners to pay special attention to the plants in their homes, since cats have the ability to jump onto tabletops and windowsills.

• Keep all drugs out of your pets' reach in closed cabinets. Painkillers, cold medicines, antidepressants, vitamins and diet pills can be lethal to animals, even in small doses.
• Never give your pets medication unless you are directed to do so by a veterinarian. Human medicine is not for pets.
• Always read the label before using flea products on or around your pets. Some flea products for dogs can be deadly if given to cats.
• If you suspect that your pet has ingested something poisonous, seek medical attention immediately.

For more information, or to contact American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, see their website at: www.aspca.org