What are the most common foods that can poison pets?

Several everyday human foods are surprisingly toxic to dogs and cats. These include: Chocolate (especially dark varieties) Grapes and raisins, which can trigger kidney failure Xylitol, a sweetener in sugar-free products, dangerous even in small amounts Macadamia nuts, onions, and garlic, which can all cause serious health issues Keep these out of reach, and never assume a small amount is safe.

Which plants around my home should I keep away from pets?

Many popular plants used in Irvine yards and homes are harmful to animals. Watch out for: Sago palm – a small amount can cause liver failure Oleander – extremely poisonous if eaten Wild mushrooms – hard to identify and can be deadly Indoor plants like lilies (toxic to cats), aloe, and pothos If your pet likes to nibble on plants, consider pet-safe alternatives.

What household or outdoor products are dangerous to pets?

Toxic substances in garages and gardens are a common cause of emergencies. Be cautious with: Rodent control products – often taste appealing but can be fatal Cocoa mulch and chemical fertilizers – toxic if ingested Antifreeze – even a small amount can be lethal to cats Weed killers – pets should avoid treated areas until fully dry Always store these products securely and read labels carefully.

What are the signs of poisoning in pets?

Symptoms can vary depending on the substance, but may include: Vomiting or diarrhea Drooling or difficulty breathing Weakness, tremors, or seizures Sudden changes in behavior or appetite However, some toxins act before symptoms appear—so if you suspect exposure, act quickly.

What should I do if I think my pet has been poisoned?

Time is critical. If you believe your pet may have consumed something toxic: Call your emergency vet immediately — don’t wait for symptoms. Bring any packaging or information about the substance. Avoid inducing vomiting unless directed by a vet. At BluePearl Irvine, our emergency team is available 24/7 to respond to poisoning cases.

Toxic Foods and Plants for Pets | Irvine Veterinary Advice

Pet poisoning risks in Irvine – FAQ.

Several everyday human foods are surprisingly toxic to dogs and cats. These include:

Chocolate (especially dark varieties)
Grapes and raisins, which can trigger kidney failure
Xylitol, a sweetener in sugar-free products, dangerous even in small amounts
Macadamia nuts, onions, and garlic, which can all cause serious health issues

Keep these out of reach, and never assume a small amount is safe.

Many popular plants used in Irvine yards and homes are harmful to animals. Watch out for:

Sago palm: A small amount can cause liver failure
Oleander: Extremely poisonous if eaten
Wild mushrooms: Hard to identify and can be deadly
Indoor plants like lilies (toxic to cats), aloe, and pothos

If your pet likes to nibble on plants, consider pet-safe alternatives.

Toxic substances in garages and gardens are a common cause of emergencies. Be cautious with:

Rodent control products: Often taste appealing but can be fatal
Cocoa mulch and chemical fertilizers: Toxic if ingested
Antifreeze: Even a small amount can be lethal to cats
Weed killers: Pets should avoid treated areas until fully dry

Always store these products securely and read labels carefully.

Symptoms can vary depending on the substance, but may include:

Vomiting or diarrhea
Drooling or difficulty breathing
Weakness, tremors, or seizures
Sudden changes in behavior or appetite

However, some toxins act before symptoms appear – so if you suspect exposure, act quickly.

Time is critical. If you believe your pet may have consumed something toxic:

Call your emergency vet immediately – don’t wait for symptoms.
Bring any packaging or information about the substance.
Avoid inducing vomiting unless directed by a vet.

At BluePearl Irvine, our emergency team is available 24/7 to respond to poisoning cases.

Visit BluePearl Pet Hospital in Irvine, located at 1371 Reynolds Ave. We’re open 24/7 with walk-ins welcome, and we frequently treat poisoning emergencies. It’s better to be cautious than to wait – fast care can save your pet’s life.