The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center in Urbana, Illinois handles 180,000 cases about pets exposed to poisonous substances a year. The ASPCA Poison Control Center is staffed with veterinary toxicologist and veterinary technicians to help your pets and your local veterinarian treat toxicology emergencies.
Prescription human medications are the number one toxin handled by poison control. The top 3 types of medication animals were exposed to include heart medications (bloodressure pills), antidepressants, and pain medications (opioids and prescription non-steroidal anti0inflammatory drugs.) Most of these exposures were due to medications being dropped and their pets ingesting them.
Insecticides used in the yard and home can harm our pets. 50% of all calls to the APCC involve cats exposed to insecticides.
In 2012 there were over 18,000 cases regarding over-the-counter human products including acetaminophen, ibuprofen and naproxen. This category also includes herbal and nutraceutical products such as fish oil and joint supplements.
Veterinary products and medications made up 6% of the call volume in 2012. Veterinary medications can be flavored which makes the pets more likely to ingest their entire bottle.
There were 10,000 calls pertaining to household products. Most were corrosive items while other such as cat litter can cause obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract.
People food made of 5% of the case load, with the number one particular toxin accidentally ingested was xylitol (sugar substitute). It is commonly found in gum and can cause both seizures and liver failure in dogs.
Plants made of more than 7,000 cases, with Lilies in cats leading the number one exposure. Lilies can cause kidney failure and death in cats.
Rodenticide toxicity made up 4% of the calls. Depending on the type of rodenticide, ingestion can cause internal bleeding, kidney failure or seizures.
Lawn and garden products complete the list. Most are made of dried blood, poultry manure, and bone meal and are very attractive to pets.
If you have any concerns with toxins and your pets please contact your veterinarian. Depending on the situation the ASPCA Poison Control Center may need to be involved. There is a $65 fee, but they may save your pet’s life. (888)426-4435
