Safeguard Your Furry Friends From Autumn’s Hidden Hazards

Candles, spices, cocktails and sweets are among the mainstays of the autumn season for many homes around the world. While these treats can certainly help humans get in the fall spirit, autumn brings its own array of potential pet safety hazards, lurking amidst the pumpkin patches and fallen leaves.

As pet owners, it’s our responsibility to know when our cats, canines and critters can join in on the fall festivities or when it’d be in their best interest to avoid them. Below we will delve into the lesser-known perils of the fall season, revealing the hidden hazards that could impact your beloved pets. From tempting seasonal foods to seemingly innocent decorations, it’s essential to be aware of these pet safety hazards to ensure a safe and happy autumn.

Steer clear of these seasonal snacks:

• Chocolate and Cocoa: We all know the dangers of chocolate for pets. The theobromine and caffeine found in chocolate and cocoa are harmful to both dogs and cats.
• Pumpkin Spice, Nutmeg, Cinnamon and Spices: Spices of this variety can cause tremors, vomiting and central nervous system issues in pets. It’s a good rule of thumb to keep any food you give your pets unseasoned, including meat!
• Apple Seeds: While apple slices are generally safe, be sure to remove the seeds, which contain cyanide and are toxic to both dogs and cats.
• Nuts: Nuts can induce vomiting, tremors and paralysis in pets. This is especially true for macadamia nuts.
• Onions and Garlic: Onions and garlic are toxic to pets and can cause red blood cell damage and gastrointestinal distress. Even foods that have been cooked with onions and garlic should be avoided as treats.
• Alcohol: Alcohol can negatively affect pets in many of the same ways that it does humans: intoxication, vomiting, confusion. Keep these liquids out of your pets’ bowls!
• Corn Cobs: The cobs themselves are a choking hazard and could cause gastrointestinal issues for pets.
• Cooked Bones: It’s definitely tempting to toss your pup a bone after Thanksgiving dinner, but cooked bones can splinter when chewed, posing choking and gastrointestinal hazards for your pet. Uncooked is the way to go!
• Grapes and Raisins: Grapes and raisins are toxic and can cause kidney failure in pets.

Avoid these autumnal accoutrements:

• Candles: Not only do open flames pose a risk to any household, especially when curious cats and rambunctious puppies are around, but the scents and smoke they produce could irritate your pet’s respiratory system. If you absolutely need candles for the ambience, opt for soy or beeswax candles instead.
• Essential Oils: According to the ASPCA, essential oils in their concentrated form can be toxic to pets. Symptoms can include unsteadiness on feet, depression or low body temperature. Studies on this are limited, so it’s better to err on the side of caution and keep them away from pets.
• Incense: The smoke incense produces can harm your pet’s respiratory system, and if ingested, the ingredients used can be toxic.
• Autumn Crocuses: While they can make for a beautiful centerpiece, these flowers are toxic for both dogs and cats and shouldn’t be kept in the home this fall.

We hope this information helps you and your furry family members have a happy, healthy and hazard-free fall. Wishing you and your animals an awesome autumn!