Unbeknownst to many pet owners, your household can contain many items that are hazardous and even deadly to the pets that share your home. Some of the items that may seem perfectly benign may, in fact, hold the largest threat to your pets.

Food Items
Sharing food off of your plate with your pets is rarely a good idea. Not only does it foster bad begging habits with your pet but it can also expose them to food products that are potential toxins or even allergens. Many pets develop, over the course of their lifetime, severe food allergies that need to be controlled in an effort to keep your pets as healthy as is possible. Foods that should never be offered to your pets include chocolate, grapes (or raisins), coffee, chewing gum, onion, mustard seeds and even salt. For a complete list of foods that are toxic to your pets, you should talk to your veterinarian. Your vet can also provide you with a list of foods that can be potential allergens for your pets.

Cleaning Products
In general, most household cleaners are able to be safely used around your pets. Carefully following the manufacturers recommended usage instructions will ensure that your house is clean while still keeping your pets safe. Pets should be kept away from direct contact with the cleaning products so be sure that you keep them away from areas that are still damp and that you carefully store all cleaning products away safely out of the reach of nosy pets. If you have any concerns about your household cleaners and their toxicity to your pets then you should consider cleaning your home with vinegar or one of the other environmentally friendly cleaning products available on the market.

Be certain that you also store any insecticides and poisons away safely out of the reach of your pets. With a bit of care you will be able to ensure that your home remain as safe as possible for your four legged companions!