Hidden household hazards that could harm your pets

Hidden household dangers that could cause your pets harm

Any pet owner will tell you that life with a furry friend is always fun and rarely predictable. While we can do our best to keep our pets safe, accidents happen and there are plenty of hidden hazards lurking in unexpected places.

Read on for our guide to some of the most common hazards your pet may encounter in your home and garden.

*Always contact your vet for advice if you're unsure whether something could be hazardous or if you’re concerned about your pet's health or safety.

Unsecured balconies

Dogs and cats are naturally inquisitive and that can often mean that they end up in places they shouldn't be. If you have a balcony, you may find your pet wants to head out to take in its surroundings, but even if you have one with a glass balustrade, your pet (particularly cats) could easily jump onto it and fall.

If you like letting your pet roam, then ensure any open railings or low balustrades are protected with a sturdy bamboo or reed screen. Although the best way to protect your pet would be to not allow them onto your balcony at all, especially unsupervised.

Open windows

It may seem obvious, but an open window could seem like an invitation to curious cats and dogs, who love people-watching as much as we do. This can lead to them getting far too close to the edge and potentially tumbling out.

We know that fresh air and ventilation are essential in the home, particularly during summer, so instead of keeping your windows sealed, open them to the lock position. This will allow air to enter the home while ensuring your pet can't get through.

You could also consider installing safety screens on your windows, or even shutters whose slats can be opened to allow air in, while also providing a protective barrier between the window and your pet.

Blinds and blind cords

When you're shopping for window dressings, the last thing you're probably thinking about is whether the product you're buying is pet-safe. But, unfortunately, playful cats can become trapped in certain types of blinds and their cords can pose a great risk of strangulation.

However, in many parts of the world, there are safety standards in place to ensure blinds are child-safe, so modern blinds should also be fine for pets. Modern blinds with a loop cord have either a P-clip to secure the cord to the wall or a safety breakaway that will release the cord if too much pressure is placed on it. Always do your research before buying any blinds.

Unchecked staircases

For many pets, the idea of exploring new parts of the home is exciting. But staircases can often pose a threat to them, especially if you have a faulty stair bannister or big gaps between your rails or balusters that a cat, dog or even rabbit could squeeze (and potentially fall) through.

To avoid any accidents, consider installing a stair gate at the bottom of your steps to stop your pet from embarking upstairs, or consider adding safety shields to your balustrade. Remember, wooden stairs can also be slippery, so a non-slip carpet runner will improve your pet's traction as it ascends or descends the stairs.

Wooden floors

We've already mentioned that wooden stairs can be slippery for pets, but so can wooden floors. We've all been there – we're walking around the home in our socks and we slip on the floor, sometimes falling.

Well, it's the same for pets and shiny, smooth floors can be extremely slippery for animals, especially when they've got the zoomies! A non-slip rug or hallway runner could prevent all members of your family from having an accident.

Small gaps behind fitted furniture

All animals are curious and love exploring, which is what makes them so endearing. However, if they find themselves entering a gap or hole they can't escape from, they could become trapped and even injured.

Dogs – especially puppies, cats and even smaller pets like hamsters and rabbits, can easily crawl into a small gap behind your kitchen cabinets or bedroom closet. So, be sure to block any entrance spots with sturdy wood panels or heavy objects they can't squeeze past.

Loose electrical cables

Puppies love nothing more than chewing everything in sight and other pets, such as rodents and rabbits, can also be found nibbling on household items.

Loose electrical cables and wires can therefore pose a health risk to your pet. If they chew through a live wire, they could electrocute or burn themselves. Pets, especially young ones, should therefore be monitored carefully and loose electric cords should be minimised or tucked away out of sight, or out of reach.

Irons and hair straighteners

Electrical appliances that give off heat, such as irons and hair straighteners, can obviously cause injury if misused or mishandled. So, you'll want to ensure you cool these items down and leave them unplugged and out of reach, so your pet can’t pull them down or run into them.

Portable heaters should also never be used in the same room as your pet if you can’t monitor them the entire time. Your pet could easily knock the heater over, hurting themselves or even causing a fire.

Children’s toys and small electricals

Children’s toys pose a great deal of risk for pets, especially those made from plastic. Plastic toys are often formed from PVC, which contains a family of chemicals called phthalates. Some toys also contain an industrial chemical known as BPA (bisphenol A). These chemicals are highly toxic and can get into your pet's bloodstream. It's also worth noting that BPA can be found in some canned dog foods, as well as plastic pet bowls.

Of course, toys and small electricals such as earbuds can pose a choking hazard if your pet decides to eat them. Batteries are also bad news for pets. They contain strong acids and, if ingested, can cause burns to their mouth, throat and stomach, as well as difficulties breathing and swallowing.

Coins

In addition to presenting a very real choking hazard for both dogs and cats, some coins are actually toxic, thanks to the presence of zinc. Zinc is a mineral compound that plays an important role in immune system functionality for both humans and animals.

However, in large doses, it can become toxic. Zinc poisoning can lead to gastrointestinal problems, including vomiting, diarrhoea and loss of appetite. If left untreated it can also lead to a breakdown of red blood cells, which can be fatal.

While it can be hard to stop dogs from digging and eating things they find on their walks, you can do your bit to avoid zinc poisoning by keeping coins out of reach. Note that zinc can also be found in dietary supplements, small metal objects and even sunscreen.

Loose personal items

It isn't just toys that can harm dogs, either. Many loose, small personal items can cause problems with their digestive tract, block their airways or lead to life-threatening infections.

Items such as hair ties, brushes and clips and, every dog's favourite, socks, can all be bad news for pets, so be sure to keep items they can chew or swallow safely stored away in a drawer or cupboard.

Human and pet medication

Medication is essential for many, but only when taken in the right doses for the right reasons. Human medicines, like ibuprofen and paracetamol, can be deadly for dogs and cats. Vitamin and mineral supplements are also potentially dangerous and should be stored out of reach in a locked or high-up cabinet.

You should also only ever give your pet medicines that have been prescribed by your vet. Always follow the instructions on the packaging carefully and if you're unsure of anything, contact your vet before taking action.

Plastic shopping bags

In the last few years, plastic has rightly become a bit of a taboo word, with many people looking for ways to irradicate it from their lives. That's because plastics are made from raw materials such as natural gas and oil. They don't biodegrade and can take up to 1,000 years to break down. The pollution plastics release can poison soil and water, too.

It goes without saying that plastic is a choking hazard for all animals, so pets should never be allowed to play with or chew plastic bags. If your dog swallows a bag, it can become wrapped around their organs or even block their airways, leading to difficulty breathing. So, either ensure your home is free of all plastic bags or keep them locked away and out of reach.

Left out food

We don't need to tell you that dogs and cats absolutely love food and will hang around when you're cooking or eating, waiting for a morsel to drop onto the floor. Some cats will even jump up onto kitchen worksurfaces to investigate what's on the menu. But some foods are extremely toxic to animals and should, under no circumstances, be consumed by them.

Countless foods are poisonous to both dogs and cats, including grapes (and their dried counterparts), chocolate, onions and garlic. Caffeine, in the form of tea, coffee and energy drinks, is also toxic to both, as is alcohol. Bones can also be very hazardous, causing injuries to the mouth, teeth, throat and digestive system. And, despite popular opinion, cats should never consume cow's milk or raw fish.

Dustbins and open binbags

As well as putting your pet at risk of swallowing plastic, open waste bins and bags could also invite your favourite four-legged friend to tuck into whatever food and other items have been discarded. Mouldy food, for one, is highly toxic for both dogs and cats.

So, store bins in closed cupboards and ensure they have a secure lid that can't be opened by a wandering paw. If that isn't possible, then make sure you dispose of anything that could be considered dangerous straight into an outdoor bin.

Hot kitchen hobs

Cats in particular love to jump onto kitchen counters and even climb up onto the top of your units, to take in the sights. So, it goes without saying that hot kitchen hobs can pose a threat to them. If you're cooking, make sure you keep an eye on your pet at all times and never leave a pot unattended on the stove.

Gas and electric hobs pose more of a risk, while induction hobs are great for those with kids and pets, since they don't involve flames or direct heat. Instead, the surface of the stove remains cool and only the pot heats up.

Washing machines and tumble dryers

Anyone with a cat will know that tumble dryers and washing machines are perfect, cosy spots for a nap, especially if there’s warm laundry inside.

It's always a good idea to air your machine after use, so if you leave the door open always check that your cat isn’t inside the appliance before using it again. If your pet is savvy and can claw open doors, then consider adding a child-safe cabinet lock to your machines.

Toilet bowls

Even in the cleanest home, the toilet is an absolute breeding ground for germs and bacteria. That's why it's essential that you always close the lid, because a thirsty cat or dog may just be tempted to use the toilet as a drinking bowl.

The water will, in all probability, contain germs that could potentially make your pet sick, leading to gastrointestinal upset. But it could also contain cleaning chemicals that could be potentially fatal. Plus, smaller pets may climb up to investigate and fall into the bowl, putting them at risk of becoming trapped, injured or even drowning.

Cleaning supplies

Cleaning supplies can be a big health risk for humans as well as animals. Pets will play with just about anything and could easily find themselves consuming toxicants that lie around the home. These include bleach, laundry detergents – especially washing pods that look like toys – and even fabric softener sheets.

All cleaning products should therefore be securely locked away and out of reach of four-legged friends. It's also worth noting that cleaning chemicals can give off potent fumes and if inhaled in a high concentration can cause stomach issues or respiratory tract infections. Always air the home when cleaning and consider switching to eco or plant-based products.

Beauty products

Did you know that beauty products can be toxic, too? Everything from face wash to soap, petroleum jelly, sunscreen, nail polish and deodorant should be kept well out of reach of pets.

Many grooming and beauty tools can be dangerous if chewed or consumed, as well. These include makeup brushes, sponges, tweezers, cotton swabs and dental floss. So, it might be time to rethink your bathroom storage solutions.

Unattended candles

There's nothing cosier than getting home after a long day and lighting a candle to set a relaxing mood. But before you do, it's worth remembering that unattended flames can lead to injuries, especially if your pet is inquisitive.

Plus, many essential oils can be harmful to animals. Peppermint, tea tree, ylang ylang, eucalyptus and lavender, which are all regularly found in candles, oil burners and diffusers, can, in high concentrations, be toxic if eaten or absorbed through the skin.

If you don't want to miss out on candles or diffusers around the home, then be sure to buy pet-friendly ones and only light your oil burner for a short time in a secure space, away from pets. If your furry friend has a history of respiratory issues, it's probably best to avoid them altogether.

Toxic plants and flowers

House plants and garden flowers can make a place feel like home, but did you know that some varieties are dangerous for pets? Cats can be harmed if they eat peonies, daffodils and tulips, while lilies are particularly toxic to them.

As for dogs, aloe vera, ivy, foxgloves, daffodils and tulips – plus many more – are harmful. Before introducing any plants to your home or garden, familiarise yourself with which varieties are poisonous and avoid having these in your home altogether. Read our guide to toxic and invasive plants.

Christmas trees and decorations

Many cats love hiding inside Christmas trees and climbing up their branches, which can lead to the tree falling over. But, aside from the mess and chaos this can cause, glass baubles that smash can obviously injure pets. Fairy lights can cause electrocution, while tinsel and ribbons can be a choking hazard. In some cases, they can also become wrapped around your pet's intestines, causing major internal issues.

Finally, glitter can become stuck in your pet's lungs and lead to respiratory problems, so keep potentially harmful items either out of reach or out of the home altogether.

Entrance doors

Dogs in particular usually can't wait to head outside when a walk is on the cards, so you may have noticed that your pooch always runs to the front door when it's opened. Both dogs and cats also hate feeling like they're missing out, so if you're approaching the front door, they will want to see why.

So, what can you do about it? Dog gates are an excellent management tool to stop your pets having access to entrance points. You can also buy retractable door barriers that will allow you to take deliveries or speak to visitors while stopping your furry friends from running outside. A second inside door is a good option too, if possible.

Featured Milano V front door available from Urban Front.

Damaged fences or garden boundaries

Ensuring your garden is secure is the best way to keep your pet safe. A damaged fence or garden boundary will give them the perfect opportunity to escape and hurt themselves, while sharp, broken edges could cut them or lead to them becoming trapped.

Make sure you repair any faults or damage to your fences and if there's a problem, keep your pet inside until it can be fixed.

Pesticides and pest control

It might sound obvious, but many pesticides and pest control products are harmful to both humans and animals. Weed killers, snail/slug repellents and fly sprays can all be potentially deadly if inhaled or ingested.

They can cause skin irritation, too, and pets can easily be exposed to chemicals by rubbing up against plants that have been treated. So, keep any dangerous products somewhere your pet won’t be able to reach them and consider swapping to eco-friendly, non-toxic products when tending to your garden.

Garden alone time

While it's good to let your dog be independent and roam free to some degree, letting them have too much alone time in the garden can be a bad idea. Allowing them to explore unattended could leave them vulnerable to theft or attack from other animals.

Depending on where you live around the world, wild pests and creatures, like foxes and coyotes, can pose a risk, especially during their pup-rearing season when some animals become highly territorial. To avoid any issues, ensure you monitor your pets when they're outside and do your bit to avoid creating a haven for garden pests.

An open garden gate

As soon as your pet leaves the security of your home or garden, anything can happen. That's why you must ensure your garden gate is securely closed at all times to prevent your favourite pal from escaping or ending up close to a road.

Be sure to ask any guests to close the gate or install a sign on your gate asking visitors to make sure it is properly closed behind them.

Swimming pools and ponds

It goes without saying that bodies of water can be highly dangerous not just for humans, but for animals, too. And it isn't just that your pet could become trapped or drown, but that in some cases, deadly bacteria can grow. Blue-green algae is toxic for dogs and symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, skin and mouth irritation, difficulty breathing and constant water consumption. Giardia, microscopic parasites, can also thrive in water and if ingested, can lead to diarrhoea and abdominal pain.

So, if you're lucky enough to have a swimming pool or a garden pond, you'll want to ensure that it poses no threat to your pet. The best way to do so is to install railings and a gate around the pond or pool, or, if the body of water isn't too big, you can also purchase clever covers that will add a protective barrier between your pet and the water.

Featured pond cover available from Agriframes.

Car maintenance products

Definitely not designed to be consumed, some car maintenance products could poison your pet. Antifreeze in particular is lethal to pets and can be found in windscreen wash, brake fluid and even de-icer, a liquid that is used regularly in cold corners of the world, to remove ice and frost from car windows.

If your pet consumes even the smallest amount of antifreeze, it could lead to serious kidney issues and may even be fatal. Therefore, be sure to store car maintenance products in a safe and secure location and regularly check your vehicle for leaks.

Bird-specific advice

If you own a bird, then it's worth noting that they are especially sensitive to inhaled particles and fumes. Everything from aerosol products to certain glues, paints, essential oils, tobacco and air fresheners can irritate them. They are also at risk from overheated non-stick pots and pans containing Teflon (polytetrafluoroethylene).

Exposure to cooking fumes, smoke and strong odours could cause severe illness or even be fatal. So, keep your bird away from areas where such products are being used, like the kitchen. Mirrors and windows that are highly reflective can also pose a risk, with birds accidentally flying into them. So, consider limiting indoor mirrors and placing visibility stickers on windows or glass doors.

What to do in an emergency

If you think your pet might have ingested a hazardous substance or has become injured in the home or garden, then you should call your vet immediately for advice. If it is urgent, then you’ll need to go to your emergency vet for speedy veterinary care. It’s wise to find the contact details of your nearest 24-hour vet and add it to your phone or pin it to your fridge, so you can access the details in a hurry.

Remember, common signs of poisoning include vomiting, decreased appetite, diarrhoea, seizures, lethargy, excessive drooling and changes in heartbeat, among others.