During National Poison Prevention Week, Kansas State University veterinarian Susan Nelson highlights everyday hazards that pet owners should watch for to keep their animals safe.

Medications, both human and veterinary, pose serious risks. Over-the-counter and prescription drugs like ibuprofen, ADHD medications, heart medications, and GLP-1 injectables can be dangerous if ingested. Some diabetic pets have been mistakenly injected with GLP-1 medications instead of insulin, leading to severe reactions. Flavored chewable pet medications can also result in overdoses if consumed in excess.

Certain foods are toxic to pets, including chocolate, xylitol-sweetened products, grapes, raisins, yeast dough, protein bars, onions, and garlic. Spilled beverages like protein shakes and alcohol can also be harmful.

Household cleaners can cause severe irritation and organ damage if licked off paws or fur. Rodenticides should be placed where pets cannot reach them, as ingestion can be fatal. Gorilla Glue is another hazard—it expands in the stomach, forming a life-threatening obstruction.

If a pet is exposed to a harmful substance and veterinary help is unavailable, owners should contact the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control hotline at 888-426-4435.