“Each year, we gather a list of the most common reasons pet parents and veterinary professionals call Pet Poison Helpline,” said Dr. Renee Schmid, a senior veterinary toxicologist and director of Veterinary Medicine at Pet Poison Helpline. “While these are not necessarily the most toxic poisons, they are the most frequently encountered by pets. Although the Top 10 dog poisons remain mostly the same from last year, a few items have shifted up and down on the list, and apparently animals are sneaking into their family’s cold and flu medicine,”  

The Top 10 Pet Poisons of 2025 for dogs were: 

1. Chocolate 

1. Grapes/Raisins 

1. Bromethalin 

1. Xylitol 

1. Onions/Chives/Leeks/Shallots (Allium species) 

1. Ibuprofen 

1. Vitamin D3 (overdose) 

1. Marijuana (THC) 

1. Anticoagulant Rodenticides 

1. Acetaminophen 

“The biggest shift was onion exposures, which shot from number 10 in 2024 to number five this past year,” Dr. Schmid explained. “Acetaminophen also made the list at number 10 and carprofen fell off the list.” Carprofen was the first veterinary-specific drug that made it on Pet Poison Helpline’s Top 10 list due to overdoses and ingestions by pets that were not prescribed the medication.  

The Top 10 Pet Poisons of 2025 for cats were: 

1. Lilies (Lilium species) 

1. Onions/Chives/Leeks/Shallots (Allium species) 

1. Chocolate 

1. Vitamin D3 (overdose) 

1. Ibuprofen 

1. Alstroemeria, Peruvian Lily 

1. Amphetamine Combos 

1. Acetaminophen 

1. Carprofen 

1. Grapes and Raisons 

“Cats have very different tastes than dogs, so the list of Top 10 Pet Poisons for cats is significantly different than for dogs,” Dr. Schmid said. “The biggest difference is that specific lilies are extremely enticing to cats, while chocolate is the biggest temptation for dogs, based on the calls received to our call center. Lilium sp lilies pose a great risk for causing kidney failure in cats and can be deadly if ingested. For cats, garlic fell off the list, which had taken the fourth spot, and grapes and acetaminophen were added. ” 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 2025’s influenza activity was the most intense since the 2009 swine flu pandemic, with more than 80 million estimated illnesses. Experts cite reduced immunity post-COVID, vaccine mismatches and severe viral strains. Children are especially vulnerable.  

“With more cold and flu medicine available in households, it makes sense that curious pets would find it and ingest it,” explained Dr. Schmid. “Many of those cold and flu medications contain acetaminophen. Common signs to watch for with acetaminophen poisoning include lethargy, swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, brown or blue gums, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite and jaundice.” 

About Pet Poison Helpline  

Pet Poison Helpline®, your trusted source for toxicology and pet health advice in times of potential emergency, is available 24 hours, seven days a week for pet owners and veterinary professionals who require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. Per incident and subscription service options are available. We are an independent, nationally recognized animal poison control center triple licensed by the Boards of Veterinary Medicine, Medicine and Pharmacy providing unmatched professional leadership and expertise. Our veterinarians and board-certified toxicologists provide treatment advice for all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline’s fee of $89 per incident includes follow-up consultations for the duration of the case. The company also offers pethelpline(SM) and pethelplinePRO(SM) subscription services directly to pet lovers. Based in Minneapolis, Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information, including a chat feature for pet owners, can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com. 

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When an item ingested is toxic to your furry or feathered family member, the first thought might be to induce vomiting immediately, but the toxicology experts at Pet Poison Helpline recommend calling a medical professional first.

“Many pets are motivated by food, especially dogs, so when something is dropped or left on the floor, they assume it is edible” said Dr. Renee Schmid, a senior veterinary toxicologist and director of Veterinary Medicine at Pet Poison Helpline. “We’ve had many pet owners who call us because they’ve dropped or given their pet the wrong medication. Dogs are also curious by nature, and explore new things with their mouths, often leading to unfortunate ingestions. If your pet does have an accidental poisoning, you may cause more harm by inducing vomiting on your own.”

In a recent case, one pet owner accidentally gave her dog her human cancer medication. As soon as she realized what had happened, she forced the dog to drink a dangerous amount of hydrogen peroxide. The cancer pill was retrieved, but the hydrogen peroxide caused the dog to continue vomiting and stop eating. It did significant damage to the dog’s gastrointestinal (GI) system. Fortunately, the dog was treated with medication to help as the stomach recovered and has returned to full health.

“Hydrogen peroxide, when used properly, can be very effective at inducing vomiting in dogs only,” explained Dr. Schmid. “If given in too great a quantity, however, it can cause significant damage to the esophagus, stomach and intestinal tract.”

In certain situations, dogs are the only animal that may be able to have vomiting attempted at home with hydrogen peroxide. Cats, birds, and other species should never have vomiting attempted at home due to high risks of potentially fatal consequences. Negative effects may also occur if vomiting is attempted at home in dogs, which makes it important to never attempt without consulting a veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline.

In another case, a Sheltie in Pennsylvania gobbled up some raisins before his owner could stop him. Grapes, raisins and currants are toxic to dogs. Ingestion of even a small amount of these foods can result in severe, acute kidney failure.

“Fortunately, the owner called Pet Poison Helpline before trying to induce vomiting at home,” Dr. Schmid said. “We were able to walk him through the process of administering the correct amount of hydrogen peroxide, and he was able to safely retrieve the raisins before they caused any harm.”

This treatment was potentially lifesaving for the pet and avoided the need for aggressive medical care. It is always ideal for vomiting, or emesis as it is known medically, to be performed under the care of a veterinarian. This is because they can administer medications that generally have fewer potential negative effects and can intervene if the pet has any issues during the process. In emergency poisoning situations, however, timing is often of the essence and home emesis may need to be considered in dogs if veterinary care is not readily available.

“To be safe, pet owners should try to consult with a veterinary professional first in case of accidentally poisoning,” Dr. Schmid added. “If your regular veterinarian isn’t available, the toxicology experts at Pet Poison Helpline are here to help.”

About Pet Poison Helpline

Pet Poison Helpline®, your trusted source for toxicology and pet health advice in times of potential emergency, is available 24 hours, seven days a week for pet owners and veterinary professionals who require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. Per incident and subscription service options are available. We are an independent, nationally recognized animal poison control center triple licensed by the Boards of Veterinary Medicine, Medicine and Pharmacy providing unmatched professional leadership and expertise. Our veterinarians and board-certified toxicologists provide treatment advice for all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline’s fee of $89 per incident includes follow-up consultations for the duration of the case. The company also offers pethelpline^(SM) and pethelplinePRO^(SM) subscription services directly to pet lovers. Based in Minneapolis, Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.

The post If Your Pet Eats Something Toxic, Hold the Hydrogen Peroxide appeared first on Pet Poison Helpline.

The good news is, fluoride consumed in small amounts is not severely toxic for your pet. Usually, mild signs of gastrointestinal upset, such as diarrhea and vomiting, are seem if only a small amount is consumed. More serious side effects, such as heart and central nervous system signs, can develop with large ingestions. Management of these side effects requires hospitalization and monitoring by your veterinarian.

For pets who consume fluoride toothpaste, the focus is on preventing further absorption of the fluoride in the stomach. Specific treatment should be done under the guidance of your veterinarian or a professional at Pet Poison Helpline.

Overall, ingestion of a small amount of fluoride toothpaste may cause mild self-limiting signs. However, if your pet has signs that last longer than 12 hours or are repeatedly vomiting, you should consult a veterinarian and the Pet Poison Helpline for treatment recommendations.

Written by:

Hailey Everhart, Pet Poison Helpline DVM Student Extern, Iowa State University, Class of 2025

Samantha Koch, CVT, Associate Pet Poison Helpline Representative II, Lead Shift Technician

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Not only are alcoholic beverages a concern, but there are several other household products that contain ethanol that you may not even be aware of. Some of these products are listed below with the average percentage of alcohol per container:

• Beer: 3.5-5%
• Wine: 5.5-16%
• Vodka, Gin, Rum, Tequila, Whiskey, Brandy: 35-50%
• Liqueurs: 20-70%
• Mouthwash: 14-27%
• Cologne: 70-90%
• Cough medicine: 0.5-25%
• Hand sanitizer: 60-90%
• Bread dough (containing yeast): 0.5-1.9%

Neurological signs can be observed early on after exposure including lethargy, weakness, and incoordination. Signs can progress and affect the heart, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and metabolic systems. Typical treatment for alcohol poisoning may consist of bloodwork, monitoring vital signs, temperature regulation, and supportive care.

To prevent alcohol poisoning, be sure to keep products in a place that is not accessible to your pet(s). If you believe an exposure has occurred, note the product ingested and time of exposure. Immediately contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-764-7661 to determine if the amount consumed is concerning. If veterinary care is recommended, proceed to your primary clinic or nearest emergency facility.

Written by: 

Paige Slifer, Pet Poison Helpline DVM Student Extern, Iowa State University DVM Candidate Class of 2025

Samantha Koch, CVT, Associate Pet Poison Helpline Representative, Lead Technician.

The post It’s Wine-o’clock Somewhere: Alcohol Poisoning in Pets appeared first on Pet Poison Helpline.

This recognition comes directly from our employees’ feedback about our workplace culture, leadership, and environment – making this 15th-time achievement especially meaningful. Our team’s unwavering commitment to respect, integrity, honesty, trust, compassion, accountability, teamwork, professionalism, and loyalty creates the foundation for everything we’ve been able to accomplish together over the last 20 years in business.

All Top Workplace awards are based solely on employee feedback. There are no subjective elements to the process, making Top Workplaces the most credible and authentic employer recognition program.

What sets this achievement apart is knowing it reflects the genuine experiences of our people who choose to show up with purpose every day. Their dedication not only strengthens our organization but drives the exceptional care we provide to each and every pet.

SafetyCall’s President and Chief Operating Officer, Kelly Sioris, said “We are incredibly honored to be recognized as a Top Workplace for the 15th time.” She continued to say “This milestone is a true reflection of our team’s passion, dedication, and shared commitment to building a culture where people feel valued and empowered every day. I’m deeply proud of what we’ve achieved together—and even more excited for what’s ahead.”

We’re incredibly proud to earn this Top Workplace award for the 15th time since the program began recognizing Minneapolis companies 16 years ago. This honor reflects the extraordinary efforts of our nearly 300 team members who work together day and night to deliver exceptional care to pets and their families. Thanks to their dedication, we continue advancing our mission to make the world a safer place for pets.

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Venomous snakes can be found in almost every state throughout the United States.  Dogs are notorious for coming nose-to-nose with these potentially deadly creatures.  Snakes may blend in with their surroundings, but when provoked or threatened they will attack, sinking their fangs into your pet’s skin and releasing venom.  Not all snakes pose the same danger though. The cottonmouth and copperhead snakes create more local tissue damage, while the coral snake or the rattlesnake may cause bleeding disorders, respiratory distress, and potentially death.  These reactions tend to happen quite quickly. Seeking immediate veterinary care after a snake bite is imperative for a good prognosis.

When you are in an area that has the potential for contact with venomous snakes, some first-aid essentials to bring include:

• Water for rinsing a bite wound
• Cell phone to contact a local veterinary hospital or Pet Poison Helpline
• Camera to get a picture of the snake for proper identification
• Pressure bandage material to prevent slow movement of venom for coral snake bites only (DO NOT USE FOR RATTLESNAKE OR COPPERHEAD BITES)

Keeping yourself safe and calm will help you perform the necessary first aid for your pet.

Clinical signs may be seen in as little as 30 minutes, or be delayed by as long as 48 hours, depending on which snake species is involved.  Signs to watch for while traveling to a veterinary facility include difficulty breathing, weakness, stumbling, staggering or falling, changes in behavior or consciousness, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Accurate identification is important. Does the old adage “red touches yellow, kill a fellow” ring a bell? Coral snakes can be the deadliest snakes in the United States, being able to accurately distinguish them from the non-venomous king snake is imperative. Knowing this information will aid in identifying clinical signs, selecting the proper anti-venom (if available), as well as necessary monitoring and treatment.

Prognosis for snake envenomation tends to be good with proper first aid and immediate veterinary care. Being prepared for an encounter with a venomous snake may save your pet’s life. If your pet has been bitten by a snake, contact your local veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline to assist with identification and treatment.

Written by:

Bayli Boehm, Pet Poison Helpline DVM student extern, University of Wisconsin-Madison Class of 2022
Samantha Koch, CVT, Veterinary Information Specialist II, Pet Poison Helpline

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“Ruby loves to go into my daughter Madilyn’s room,” Meg Clark explained. “We put up a temporary gate to keep her from going in, but she’s very persistent. My daughter has psoriasis, and she keeps her medicated cream in her room. One day we had left the gate open, and my daughter found that Ruby had eaten almost an entire container of the cream, tube and all. Ruby then pushed the chewed-up tube under a nightstand.”

Initially Clark “wasn’t too concerned” since Ruby had previously ingested other items including mascara and lip gloss. It wasn’t until that night she noticed the start of some serious symptoms.

“A few hours later her eyes were really droopy,” Clark said. “I was cooking dinner, and she was just staring up at me with these droopy lids. At first, I thought she might have had a stroke, but then my daughter reminded me that Ruby had gotten into her medication. At that point, I called our veterinarian, who advised us to take her to an emergency clinic. I also called Pet Poison Helpline.”

Ruby was taken to BluePearl Pet Hospital in Phoenix. There, the medical team worked with the toxicology experts at Pet Poison Helpline to develop a treatment plan.

“We get thousands of calls each year regarding pets ingesting human and animal medications that weren’t prescribed to them,” said Dr. Renee Schmid, a senior veterinary toxicologist and director of Veterinary Medicine at Pet Poison Helpline. “The main ingredient in the psoriasis and eczema medication Ruby ingested is ruxolitinib, which is in a class of medication called JAK inhibitors.”

There is limited information available regarding animal poisonings from JAK inhibitors. As leaders in veterinary toxicology, Pet Poison Helpline has published the first retrospective paper in the Journal of Medical Toxicology on overdose concerns with a similar medication after a thorough review of information on patients assisted by Pet Poison Helpline.

“There are similar medications approved for use in dogs with allergies and are generally safe when used as directed,” Dr. Schmid added. “They can result in life-threatening complications, however, when a large overdose is ingested or the drug is given to pets who weren’t prescribed the medication.”

When Ruby arrived at the veterinary hospital, she was lethargic, had been experiencing loose stools and drooping eyes, and had severe tachycardia (elevated heart rate). The toxicology team at Pet Poison Helpline and the hospital veterinarian discussed additional reactions that may occur due to the amount of medication Ruby ingested. This included liver and kidney damage, a decrease in tear production, as well as possible white blood cell changes.

To help with cardiovascular support, Ruby was placed on IV fluids and given medication to help lower her heart rate. She was also given an anti-emetic for possible stomach upset. The medical team at BluePearl provided aggressive care for Ruby that not only prevented worsening of her symptoms but minimized her risk of negative effects from the symptoms she had developed.

“In addition to her droopy eyes and diarrhea, the big worry was her heartrate was too high,” Clark added. “They had her connected to an EKG machine to monitor her, and they also kept checking her liver and kidney numbers.”

Once Ruby was released from the hospital, the Clarks administered liver-protectant medication for a month, and they had to return to the hospital several times for additional tests to ensure no liver, kidney, or white blood cell damage had occurred.

“Fortunately, Ruby is out of the worry time now,” Clark shared. “We’re very grateful to the team at Pet Poison Helpline for helping save her life. This wasn’t our first time calling them, as our previous dog Lola had gotten into our son’s medication. Knowing they’re there gives us great peace of mind, but we’ve also installed a permanent gate so hopefully we don’t have to call them again.”

“Ruby’s experience is a great reminder for all pet lovers,” Dr. Schmid added. “Keep all medications, supplements and anything else potentially toxic safely stored away from your pets and small children. Medications may be safe when used in the amount and manner they are approved for, but life-threatening concerns can occur when different species are exposed, or different amounts are ingested. While we’re here to help 24/7, stopping an exposure before it happens is always the best outcome.”

About Pet Poison Helpline

Pet Poison Helpline®, your trusted source for toxicology and pet health advice in times of potential emergency, is available 24 hours, seven days a week for pet owners and veterinary professionals who require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. Per incident and subscription service options are available. We are an independent, nationally recognized animal poison control center triple licensed by the Boards of Veterinary Medicine, Medicine and Pharmacy providing unmatched professional leadership and expertise. Our veterinarians and board-certified toxicologists provide treatment advice for all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline’s fee of $89 per incident includes follow-up consultations for the duration of the case. The company also offers pethelpline^(SM) and pethelplinePRO^(SM) subscription services directly to pet lovers. Based in Minneapolis, Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.

The post Snooping Pooch Sneaks a Snack of Eczema Cream appeared first on Pet Poison Helpline.

“Just last month we received a call from a mother who picked her daughter up from a music festival and decided to bring the daughter’s Pomeranian named Rocky along for the ride,” said Dr. Renee Schmid, a senior veterinary toxicologist and director of Veterinary Medicine at Pet Poison Helpline. “The festival had a very clear no-pets policy, which is why the daughter had not taken Rocky with her to the outdoor event.”

Once the mother arrived at the location, Rocky started exploring other nearby campsites while the daughter finished packing up.

“After a few minutes of roaming, Rocky started vomiting,” Dr. Schmid continued. “The daughter took the dog home for a nap. When she woke up, she didn’t think Rocky was sleeping normally so she took him to the veterinary hospital, and they called us for help with this complicated case.”

Rocky was taken to Eagleson Veterinary Clinic in Kanata, Ontario, Canada. It turned out that Rocky was having a similar experience to many rock stars – he tested positive for THC (tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive compound in marijuana), cocaine and amphetamines.

“Rocky had somehow come in contact with multiple drugs that can be fatal, especially to a small Pomeranian,” Dr. Schmid explained. “In addition to THC and cocaine, Rocky tested positive for a combination of amphetamines.”

By the time Rocky arrived at the veterinary hospital, he was already unaware of his surroundings, was hypothermic (decreased body temperature), bradycardia (decreased heart rate), and was hypotensive (low blood pressure). The hospital team began to aggressively treat Rocky for his symptoms, whose clinical profile was most consistent with THC ingestion. Rocky was started on intravenous fluids to help with his low blood pressure and offer cardiovascular support. The hospital staff also worked to increase his body temperature and gave reversal agents for an opioid and benzodiazepine overdose to help Rocky’s alertness in case he had been exposed to those types of drugs as well.

Urine drug screen results can be inaccurate in animals due to differences between animals and humans, making it important to treat the pet’s symptoms, not necessarily the test results. Additional medication was given to manage Rocky’s low heart rate as well as additional therapy to help improve removal of the toxin from Rocky’s body.

“The hospital’s medical team, working in conjunction with Pet Poison Helpline toxicology experts, developed an aggressive treatment plan that saved Rocky’s life,” Dr. Schmid said. “In fact, we’re using this case to launch our new Lifesavers promotional campaign, because everyone involved in the process had a hand in saving him. The pet owner was observant and took Rocky to the hospital, saving his life. The hospital team knew the symptoms involved potential toxins, so they called Pet Poison Helpline for assistance, saving Rocky’s life. Every person who helped Rocky along the way is his lifesaver.”

The Lifesaver campaign will include tradeshow creative and messaging elements, as well as a new social media campaign featuring lifesaving cases and stories. All of this will complement the team’s current educational Toxin Tails campaign. If you have had a lifesaver experience with Pet Poison Helpline, visit here to tell your story.

About Pet Poison Helpline

Pet Poison Helpline®, your trusted source for toxicology and pet health advice in times of potential emergency, is available 24 hours, seven days a week for pet owners and veterinary professionals who require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. Per incident and subscription service options are available. We are an independent, nationally recognized animal poison control center triple licensed by the Boards of Veterinary Medicine, Medicine and Pharmacy providing unmatched professional leadership and expertise. Our veterinarians and board-certified toxicologists provide treatment advice for all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline’s fee of $89 per incident includes follow-up consultations for the duration of the case. The company also offers pethelpline^(SM) and pethelplinePRO^(SM) subscription services directly to pet lovers. Based in Minneapolis, Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information, including a chat feature for pet owners, can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.

The post Dogs, Drugs and Rock ‘n’ Roll appeared first on Pet Poison Helpline.

In our 2025 Report Card, we reflect on 365 days of expert toxicology guidance for pets and the people who love them. From coast to coast, veterinary professionals and pet parents trusted us to be part of their care teams when it mattered most.

Here are a few highlights from 2025:

1. Nationwide reach, local impact
Pet parents called us from all 50 states this year—especially California, Texas, Florida, Pennsylvania, and New York. No matter where you are, our board-certified toxicologists are available 24/7/365.

2. Chocolate still reigns supreme
For yet another year, chocolate remained our most common food-related call. Year after year, this everyday treat proves why vigilance matters—even the most familiar items can pose a risk to our pets.

3. Emerging concern: Apoquel overdoses
As more pets are prescribed Apoquel (oclacitinib) and other JAK inhibitors for allergies, we saw a significant increase in accidental overdoses from these palatable chewable tablets. A reminder that even veterinary-prescribed medications require careful storage.

4. Baclofen remains the most dangerous
This muscle relaxant continues to be the most frequently encountered high-risk medication call we receive. Even small amounts can cause life-threatening symptoms in pets.

5. We served pets of all kinds
While 87% of our calls were about dogs and 12% about cats, we also provided guidance for exotic pets, livestock, and other species. Every animal deserves expert care.

6. Education and outreach expanded
Our team shared toxicology expertise across multiple platforms: 25 expert interviews, 7 podcast appearances, and over 50 hours of ongoing veterinary education initiatives at veterinary schools and conferences across the country. We’re committed to turning real-life cases into learning opportunities for veterinary professionals and pet parents alike.

7. ToxinTails reached thousands
Our patient stories were featured in major outlets including AP News, Yahoo Finance, People.com, and dvm360—generating over 37,000 views and 6,500+ media placements. Every case we share helps pet parents recognize risks and act quickly.

Our staff worked around the clock to keep pets safe, and we’re honored by your trust in us throughout 2025. Here’s to the year behind us—and an even safer year ahead for pets everywhere.

Thank you for being part of our mission.

—The Pet Poison Helpline Team

View & download the 2025 Report Card here:

Pet Poison Helpline 2025 Report Card

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“We have four dogs, and two are usually the troublemakers,” explained Vaughan, who lives with her family in Florida. “When I found my face mask chewed up, I actually yelled at the wrong dog. When Maya started vomiting up the gel, however, I realized she was the real culprit.”

At first, Vaughan wasn’t too concerned. She used to work at a dog training company, and has been around dogs her whole life, so she assumed Maya would simply vomit up the mask contents and be fine.

“My husband slept on the couch to be close to her, and she vomited throughout the night,” Vaughan added. “The next morning, she started acting wobbly, so I decided I better call a veterinarian. They advised me to call the toxicology experts at Pet Poison Helpline.”

“We are finding that some face masks have started to contain a chemical compound called acrylamide, which can be toxic to both pets and people if ingested in a large enough quantity,” said Dr. Renee Schmid, a senior veterinary toxicologist and director of Veterinary Medicine at Pet Poison Helpline. “We have seen an increase in the number of suspected acrylamide poisoning calls we receive from seemingly harmless products. National Poison Prevention Month is coming up in March, so we thought it was timely and important to highlight this case for other pet lovers.”

When Maya arrived at the Veterinary Emergency Clinic of Central Florida, she was panting and anxious but had stopped vomiting. Pet Poison Helpline advised the hospital medical team that the face mask may have contained acrylamide, which can cause gastrointestinal upset, central nervous system stimulation or depression, ataxia (poor muscle control), tremors, seizures and liver injury. Ingestion of acrylamide is fatal in many instances. They recommended Maya receive an anti-emetic, intravenous fluids and continued monitoring. Specific medications for tremors, seizures and liver support were discussed to be given based on how Maya’s symptoms progressed.

“Acrylamide can be found in a wide range of products, including cosmetics and packaging,” Dr. Schmid added.

Pet Poison Helpline is warning pet lovers about the potential hidden dangers inside products and materials containing acrylamide. Typically, exposure to cold packs and wraps causes mild stomach upset. However, after ingestion of cooling migraine wraps, pets were developing severe neurologic signs including ataxia, body tremors, and seizures. These severe signs have been fatal in several cases.

“While there continues to be testing and research as to why this is happening, we have discovered a common link that may be causing the severe poisonings; acrylamide,” Dr. Schmid confirmed. “Educating the public on the potential risks of these products if ingested by pets is critical in minimizing the number of animals being exposed to this potentially fatal material.”

“Maya is 13 years old, so I’m astonished she came back so well,” Vaughen added. “She’s acting like a four-year-old again. We spent $4,700 on veterinary bills, but obviously it was 100% worth it.”

About Pet Poison Helpline

Pet Poison Helpline®, your trusted source for toxicology and pet health advice in times of potential emergency, is available 24 hours, seven days a week for pet owners and veterinary professionals who require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. Per incident and subscription service options are available. We are an independent, nationally recognized animal poison control center triple licensed by the Boards of Veterinary Medicine, Medicine and Pharmacy providing unmatched professional leadership and expertise. Our veterinarians and board-certified toxicologists provide treatment advice for all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline’s fee of $89 per incident includes follow-up consultations for the duration of the case. The company also offers pethelpline^(SM) and pethelplinePRO^(SM) subscription services directly to pet lovers. Based in Minneapolis, Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information, including a chat feature for pet owners, can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.

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The #1 Easter Danger for Cats: Lily Poisoning

No Easter hazard is more urgent for cat owners than the Easter lily. If you have a cat in your home, this is the most important thing you’ll read this spring.

Easter lilies, along with tiger lilies, Asiatic lilies, Oriental lilies, daylilies, and stargazer lilies, are among the most toxic plants known to cats. Every part of the plant is dangerous — the leaves, petals, stem, pollen, and even the water in the vase.

Symptoms of Lily Poisoning in Cats

Signs of lily poisoning in cats typically appear within 6 to 12 hours of exposure and include:

• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy and weakness
• Dehydration

As kidney failure develops, symptoms worsen. There is no antidote for lily poisoning so early detection is very important. Aggressive veterinary care, including intravenous fluid therapy and kidney function monitoring, can be life-saving when started promptly. Treatment ideally begins within a few  hours after exposure; the longer treatment is delayed, a much poorer prognosis is likely.

If you see your cat near a lily — even just sniffing it — call (855) 764-7661 or go to your veterinarian immediately.

Lily poisoning is specific to cats. Dogs may experience mild stomach upset after ingesting a large amount, but they do not develop the acute kidney failure that makes lily exposure so deadly for our feline friends.

Tip: When ordering or receiving Easter flower arrangements, ask your florist to leave out all Lilium species — including stargazer, Asiatic, Oriental, and tiger lilies. This one step could save your cat’s life.

Other Easter Plants That Are Dangerous for Dogs and Cats

Lilies aren’t the only floral hazard of the season. Several popular Easter and spring plants pose real risks to both cats and dogs. For the most poisonous plants to pets, visit our blog, Top 10 Plants Poisonous to Pets. 

Tulips and Hyacinths belong to the same plant family and share a similar toxic profile. The greatest danger is in the bulbs, where the toxic compounds are most concentrated. Dogs that dig in gardens or encounter bags of unplanted bulbs are especially at risk. Signs of tulip poisoning in cats and dogs — and hyacinth poisoning — include profuse drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. With large ingestions, more serious signs such as increased heart rate and difficulty breathing can develop.

Daffodils contain an alkaloid called lycorine that triggers intense vomiting. The outer layer of the bulb also contains crystals that cause severe tissue irritation and drooling. Daffodil ingestions can produce more pronounced symptoms than tulip or hyacinth exposures, including abdominal pain and, in severe cases of bulb ingestion, cardiac arrhythmias or respiratory depression. Narcissus, Paperwhite, and Jonquil plants carry the same risks.

Amaryllis is a popular spring-holiday plant that is toxic to both cats and dogs. It contains alkaloids concentrated in the bulb that can cause vomiting, a drop in blood pressure, and respiratory depression, along with drooling and abdominal discomfort.

Azaleas and Rhododendrons — common in spring gardens across the country — can cause serious harm even when only a small number of leaves are eaten. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, and with significant ingestions, heart rhythm abnormalities and neurological signs. Both plants belong to the same family and carry the same concern. Without prompt veterinary care, large ingestions can be fatal.

Easter Candy: A Potential Danger in Every Wrapper

Chocolate is the classic Easter treat — and one of the most common reasons pet owners call Pet Poison Helpline during the holiday week. Calls related to chocolate poisoning in dogs increase by nearly 200 percent during Easter.

Chocolate contains methylxanthines — theobromine and caffeine — that dogs cannot process safely. These compounds affect the nervous system, heart, and gastrointestinal tract. The darker and more bitter the chocolate, the greater the danger. Baker’s chocolate and dark chocolate are the most toxic; milk chocolate is less concentrated but still a concern depending on the size of dog.

Signs of chocolate poisoning in dogs include:

• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Restlessness and hyperactivity
• Elevated heart rate or irregular heart rhythm
• Muscle tremors or seizures

Sugar-free and low sugar candy is another serious concern. Many low sugar or sugar-free gummies, mints, and even some chocolates contain xylitol — a sweetener that is safe for humans but can cause a rapid, dangerous drop in blood sugar in dogs. With larger exposures, xylitol can also cause life-threatening liver damage. Signs can appear quickly and include vomiting, weakness, loss of coordination, and collapse.

Always check the ingredient labels on Easter candy, and keep everything — even “just one piece” — completely out of reach of your pets.

The Rest of the Basket: Hidden Hazards

The candy isn’t the only thing in that Easter basket worth worrying about.

Easter grass — the colorful plastic or paper filler lining most baskets — is particularly dangerous for cats, who find its stringy texture irresistible. If swallowed, Easter grass can become anchored in the digestive tract and cause what is called a linear foreign body: a serious condition where the intestines begin to bunch or tear around the material. This frequently requires emergency surgery. If you notice Easter grass missing from a basket or catch your pet chewing on it, contact your veterinarian promptly.

Raisins and grapes sometimes appear in Easter trail mix or yogurt-covered snack packs. Both are toxic to dogs and cats and can cause acute kidney failure. If your pet has eaten any amount of raisins or grapes, call (855) 764-7661 immediately — this is not a situation to monitor at home.

Foil wrappers and plastic eggs are easy to overlook, but dogs who devour chocolate often swallow wrappers along with it. Foil and plastic can cause gastrointestinal obstruction, and small plastic eggs are a choking hazard. After Easter celebrations, do a sweep of floors and low surfaces to collect anything that may have dropped.

What to Do If Your Pet Is Poisoned

If you think your pet has gotten into something dangerous, time is critical. Here’s what to do:

1. Stay calm and remove your pet from the source.
2. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline.
3. Call Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 — our Veterinary Toxicology Experts are available around the clock to guide you.
4. Bring the plant, packaging, or substance with you to the veterinarian so the exposure can be properly identified and treated.

A Safer Easter for Every Pet

A few simple steps can make a real difference:

• Keep all lilies out of homes with cats — no exceptions
• Store Easter baskets and candy in closed rooms or on shelves pets can’t reach
• Swap plastic Easter grass for tissue paper
• Check your yard for spring bulbs, daffodils, azaleas, and other toxic plants before letting pets outside unsupervised
• Save (855) 764-7661 in your phone before the holiday arrives

The Pet Poison Helpline team is here every day of the year — including Easter Sunday — because we know emergencies don’t follow a calendar. If something doesn’t seem right with your pet this holiday, trust your instincts and call.

Happy Easter from Pet Poison Helpline.

This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you believe your pet has ingested something toxic, call Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 or contact your veterinarian immediately.

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