Pet Poisoning
Common toxins, first steps, and when to call Lakeville Family Pet Clinic about possible poisoning.
If you think your dog or cat ate something toxic, act quickly – and don't rely on internet home remedies. Some toxins cause problems within minutes. Others look fine at first and turn serious hours later.
Chocolate, xylitol (in many sugar-free gums and baked goods), grapes/raisins, lilies (cats), antifreeze, rodent bait, human medications, and certain household cleaners are among the most common emergencies we hear about. Bring the packaging if you have it.
This guide covers first steps, warning signs, and when to contact a veterinarian in Lakeville, MN.
What Are Common Pet Poisons?
Frequently involved toxins include:
- Chocolate and caffeine
- Xylitol in gum, candy, some peanut butters and baked goods
- Grapes, raisins, and currants
- Onions, garlic, and chives in quantity
- Lilies (highly toxic to cats – including pollen and vase water)
- Antifreeze (ethylene glycol)
- Rodenticide / mouse and rat bait
- Human NSAIDs and acetaminophen
- Prescription medications meant for people
- Cannabis products
- Certain plants, essential oils, and insecticides
Don’t Just Take Our Word For It
When Is Suspected Poisoning An Emergency?
Call us immediately (or an emergency clinic / poison hotline if we are closed) if your pet:
- Is known or strongly suspected to have ingested a toxin
- Is vomiting, seizuring, collapsing, or having trouble walking
- Is drooling heavily, trembling, or unusually agitated
- Has pale, yellow, or brick-red gums
- Is bleeding, bruising, or extremely lethargic after possible rodent bait
- Is a cat with any lily exposure
Do not wait for symptoms if the toxin is known to be dangerous.
What To Do First If Your Pet Ate Something Bad
**1. Remove access to the substance**
**2. Note what was eaten, how much, and when (take a photo of the label)**
**3. Call us before inducing vomiting – some substances cause more damage coming back up**
**4. Do not give milk, oil, hydrogen peroxide, or salt unless specifically directed**
**5. Keep your pet calm and prepare to come in if advised**
ASPCA Animal Poison Control and Pet Poison Helpline are additional 24/7 resources (fees may apply) when you need toxin-specific guidance after hours.
Poisoning Vs. An Upset Stomach
One episode of vomiting after scavenging can be mild GI upset – or the first sign of toxin exposure. The difference is the substance and the dose.
If you didn't see what was eaten, watch closely and call with a clear timeline of symptoms. If you did see a concerning toxin, call even if your pet still seems fine.
Why Families Choose Us
Family-Centered Care
Award-Winning Team
Independently Owned
Preventing Future Problems
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- Keeping meds, gum, chocolate, and bait secured
- Knowing plant names before bringing them home
- Pet-proofing garages (antifreeze)
- Using pet-safe pest control products
- Teaching kids not to share people-food without checking safety
How We Evaluate Possible Toxin Exposure
Depending on the toxin and timing, care may include:
- Rapid triage exam
- Decontamination when appropriate and safe
- Bloodwork and monitoring
- IV fluids
- Medications to protect organs, control seizures, or reduce absorption
- Hospitalization for observation
- Imaging if a foreign object or bait packaging may have been swallowed
Treatment Options After Toxin Ingestion
Treatment is toxin-specific. It may include supportive care only, or intensive monitoring for liver, kidney, neurologic, or clotting complications. Early presentation expands options – waiting until a pet is already in crisis narrows them.
Bring packaging, a plant sample, or a photo whenever you can.
F.A.Q
Should I make my dog vomit?
Only if a veterinarian or poison hotline tells you to – and only with the method they recommend.
My pet seems fine after eating chocolate. Still call?
Yes. Dose, chocolate type, and body weight matter. Seeming fine at first can still change.
Are lilies really that dangerous to cats?
Yes. Even small exposures can cause kidney failure. Seek care immediately.
What information should I have ready?
Product name/ingredients, amount, time of ingestion, pet's weight, and current symptoms.
Can prevention really help?
Yes – pet-proofing counters, trash, meds, and plants prevents most of these emergencies.
Related Care and Pet Health Resources
Browse more dog health concerns or return to all pet health concerns.
Request an appointment if your pet needs veterinary care.