As pets grow older, their sensitivity to toxins can grow stronger. Whether you share your home with a dog, cat, rabbit, pocket pet, bird, or exotic companion, senior pets are more vulnerable to common household and environmental poisons. March is Pet Poison Prevention Month, an opportunity to reevaluate your safety measures for aging pets. At Arab Veterinary Hospital, we treat many kinds of animals and understand how aging affects their ability to recover from toxin exposure.

Why Senior Pets Are at Greater Risk of Toxicity

No matter the species, aging pets face similar challenges that heighten their risk of poisoning. Most senior pets have declining organ function. Older kidneys and livers are less efficient at processing and eliminating toxins. Because they have weaker immune systems, older pets may not recover from poisoning as quickly as younger ones. Senior pets may have trouble avoiding poison hazards due to reduced vision, smell, or agility.

Common Toxins That Threaten Aging Pets

From furry to feathered, senior pets are more sensitive to many everyday dangers.

• Medications: Any medications can be toxic in the wrong dose or to the wrong species.
• Foods: Grapes, onions, garlic, chocolate, and xylitol are harmful to cats, dogs, and some exotic pets.
• Plants: Lilies, sago palms, and philodendrons are some plants that are hazardous to certain pets.
• Aerosols and Air Fresheners: Pets can be sensitive to airborne chemicals, and some essential oils are toxic to them.
• Rodenticides and Insecticides: These pose significant dangers for all species, particularly smaller pets, as even a tiny dose may prove fatal to them.

For cats and dogs, pet owners can find guides on toxic plants, foods, and household items on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control website. Some of the items in these guides can also be toxic to exotic pets like birds or rabbits, so check with a veterinarian for expert advice.

How to Protect Your Senior Pet from Toxic Items

Protecting older pets from toxic items can be accomplished with a few steps. Store medications and toxins securely in cabinets with locks. Use pet-safe cleaning products, avoiding aerosols. Get rid of any toxic plants in your home, and choose non-toxic alternatives safe for all species. Secure trash and food storage to prevent curious senior pets from accessing harmful leftovers. Limit access to risky areas. Use gates or closed doors to keep pets out of the garage, laundry room, or kitchen.

Emergency Action Plan if Your Senior Pet is Poisoned

Take action right away if you suspect your senior pet has been poisoned. Some common symptoms of toxin exposure are lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, labored breathing, drooling, tremors, seizures, or confusion.

• Identify the toxin and remove your pet from the source.
• Note how much your senior pet ate (if swallowed) and the time.
• Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.
• Call your veterinarian for pet urgent care or a helpline like the Pet Poison Helpline.

Stop Senior Pet Toxin Exposure with Arab Veterinary Hospital in Arab, AL

Arab Veterinary Hospital knows that senior pets require extra care when it comes to poison prevention. Their changing bodies and habits make them more vulnerable to household toxic items. March is Pet Poison Prevention Month, so take this month to reassess how you care for your aging companions. Our veterinary hospital serves Arab, Alabama, and nearby communities like Guntersville and Cullman with care for senior cats, dogs, rabbits, pocket pets, birds, and exotic pets. Request an appointment with us to develop a poison prevention plan for your senior pet.