Every day, pets encounter a variety of potential toxins, many of which could lead to serious health emergencies if ingested. To help pet owners stay informed, Pet Poison Helpline has released its annual list of the top pet poisons of 2024, compiled from thousands of cases reported to its experts over the past year.
According to Dr. Renee Schmid, a senior veterinary toxicologist at Pet Poison Helpline, “Although this year’s lists for dogs and cats are similar to 2023, there are some shifts in rankings, and the differences between species remain significant.”
Here’s what pet owners need to know about the most common pet poisons of 2024 and how to keep their furry family members safe.
Top 10 Poisons for Dogs in 2024
- Chocolate
- Grapes/Raisins
- Bromethalin (rodenticide)
- Xylitol
- Ibuprofen
- Marijuana (THC)
- Anticoagulant Rodenticides
- Vitamin D3 (overdose)
- Carprofen (overdose)
- Onions/Chives/Leeks/Shallots (Allium species)
Notable changes for 2024 include bromethalin moving up two spots from fifth to third place, and carprofen (a common pain reliever for dogs) rising to ninth place. Dr. Schmid clarified that most carprofen cases involve accidental ingestion or overdose, not standard therapeutic use.
Top 10 Poisons for Cats in 2024
- Lilies (Lilium species)
- Chocolate
- Onions/Chives/Leeks/Shallots (Allium species)
- Garlic
- Ibuprofen
- Alstroemeria (Peruvian Lily)
- Vitamin D3 (overdose)
- Amphetamine Combos
- Carprofen
- Tulips
For cats, lilies once again topped the list as the most dangerous toxin, while chocolate—a leading temptation for dogs—ranked second. Other flowers, like Peruvian lilies, and household medications also pose a significant risk for felines.
Marijuana: A Persistent Concern for Dogs
Marijuana (THC) exposure remains a common issue for dogs, although there was a 24.7% drop in calls related to marijuana in 2024 compared to 2023. Despite this decrease, it still ranked sixth on the list for dogs.
“Even if you don’t use marijuana, your pet can still be exposed,” explained Dr. Schmid. “We’ve seen cases where dogs got into a neighbor’s pot brownies or someone unknowingly brought THC-infused treats into a pet’s environment.” Based on call data, dogs are far more likely than cats to ingest marijuana products.
Pet Poison Helpline has been actively working to educate the public on THC dangers, which may have contributed to the decline in cases. However, pet owners are encouraged to remain vigilant as marijuana becomes more accessible in states with legal medical or recreational use.
It should also go without saying (but I’ll say it anyway) that you shouldn’t give your dog pot for pain relief. If you want to reap the pain-relief benefits without the THC dangers and other side effects, go with a CBD chew designed for dogs (like Vet Naturals Hemp & Hips Plus CBD).
Preventing Poisoning in Pets
While the lists highlight common toxins, the experts at Pet Poison Helpline emphasize that any pet can encounter unexpected hazards. Everyday items like medications, food, and household chemicals can quickly become life-threatening in the wrong paws.
If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxin, Pet Poison Helpline is available 24/7 to provide expert assistance. Their $85 per-incident fee includes follow-up consultations for the duration of the case, offering peace of mind during stressful situations.
For more information, visit Pet Poison Helpline or call 800-213-6680.
By staying informed and taking precautions, pet owners can significantly reduce the risk of poisoning and ensure a safe, happy home for their furry companions.
Have you had a scare with one of these toxins? Share your story in the comments to help spread awareness!
