Our pets sometimes help themselves into things they shouldn’t, including the handbag – and it can contain a few nasty compounds which you may not be aware of.
Let’s take a look at 3 of the most likely dangers to pets which are regularly found in our handbags.
1. Ibuprofen
Most of us will carry a supply of ibuprofen, maybe for those minor aches and pains that we have from day to day.
Unfortunately, ibuprofen is quite toxic to dogs and will routinely cause ulceration of the stomach, even at relatively minor doses that would be quite safe for human beings.
This may cause your dog to start vomiting which progresses to vomiting blood (haematemesis), and in some cases can cause perforation of the stomach, leading to peritonitis and a risk of death.
If vomiting blood, your pet would be extremely sick and require intensive care, and likely surgery to fix the problem.
In cats, ibuprofen is more likely to cause kidney damage which could also be fatal. However, cats are usually a bit cleverer than dogs and won’t necessarily ingest the product in the first place.
So the safety message here is to keep ibuprofen well out of harm’s way. Although it’s a relatively safe compound in humans, it could have disastrous consequences in our pets.
2. Paracetamol
Paracetamol causes less concern in dogs and has been used as a pain medication for dogs, albeit a pretty weak analgesic (it can cause liver failure gastric ulceration at higher doses).
In cats, paracetamol causes a problem known as methaemoglobinaemia. This is where the red blood cells are damaged such that they can no longer carry oxygen. The cat will become lethargic and easily fatigue to have difficulty breathing and when examined will appear to have chocolate coloured gums. This is due to the changes caused by the oxidative injury to the haemoglobin by the paracetamol.
Again, the message here is keep paracetamol out of harm’s way and you’ll never have to worry about this problem.
3. Xylitol
Xylitol is a compound found in chewing gums and it’s toxicity leads to problems with glucose metabolism and subsequently neurological damage. Xylitol stimulates insulin release which causes a drop in glucose and a resulting injury to the neurological system as glucose is the preferred energy substrate for the brain. Pets can also develop acute liver failure, about two days after ingestion of xylitol.
Unfortunately, there is no antidote for xylitol toxicity known at this time, and treatment is aimed at controlling symptoms and supportive care.
What to do if you suspect your pet has ingested one of these
Our households carry a number of risks and it is wise to be aware of these and prepared for any possible injuries. If you suspect your pet has ingested one of these compounds or something similar, please contact your veterinarian as soon as possible, as early treatment gives the best chance of success.
Have you also read our list of toxic foods and plants to look out for to keep our pets safe?
