Autumn is a season filled with delights, from crisp air to cozy sweaters and delicious hot drinks. So many of us adore this time of year because it means brisk walks outside with eager dogs or curling up with a good book and a snoozing cat nearby.
But it’s also a season filled with hidden dangers for our four-legged family members. Since a healthy pet depends on us to keep them safe, take a few minutes now to learn about autumn’s most common seasonal poisons.
Halloween candies can be trouble for our furry friends. Chocolate is especially dangerous due to the presence of theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs and cats. Keep all Halloween treats out of your pet’s reach and make sure to have healthy snacks for dogs and cats on hand to avoid temptation.
The aroma of a roasting turkey is a seasonal tradition for many, but cooked poultry bones splinter easily and can cause choking, digestive blockages or severe injuries to your pet’s mouth or throat. Make sure any bones (and all dinner scraps) are disposed of safely in a compost or trash bin that’s secure enough to keep hungry pets out.
While most of the mushrooms that sprout up in yards and parks during the fall are harmless, some can be toxic to pets and result in severe gastrointestinal issues, organ failure or even death. If you suspect your pet has eaten a wild mushroom, contact your vet immediately.
Other plants can pose problems, too. Chrysanthemums (often found in decorative planters) can cause digestive upset, drooling and skin irritation if ingested, and decorative corn can cause an obstruction if ingested. Always research any new plants or decorations you bring home and keep them out of your pet’s reach.
Winterizing your car and home may seem routine, but there are hidden dangers to be aware of. Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which can be fatal to pets even in small amounts, so make sure to keep it out of reach and clean any spills right away. Store all household cleaning products and chemicals out of reach, too. If you use insecticides and rodent poison, place them in elevated areas your pet can’t reach and restrict your pet’s access to the affected areas. You can also consider switching to non-chemical options for pest control.
Purchasing pet insurance is another way to give your cat or dog even more protection in the event of any accidental poisoning or illness. We’ve partnered with Pets Plus Us to offer CAA Members a 12% discount*, plus all pet insurance plans include free access to the 24/7 Pet Poison Helpline® as part of their Blue Ribbon Benefits. To help make sure your pet is fully protected, get a free quote today at caamanitoba.com/insurance/pet or call 1-833-323-2605 to get started.