Our pets are naturally curious—sniffing, pawing, and exploring every corner of the home. While it’s easy to think your space is safe, many everyday areas can pose hidden dangers to dogs and cats. An ounce of prevention is always worth a pound of cure (and a little look around the house may help prevent a trip to the emergency veterinary hospital!).

Knowing where the risks are is the first step in pet-proofing your home and avoiding emergency vet visits. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top five places in your home where household dangers for dogs and cats are most common—and how to make those spaces safer.

1. Kitchen Hazards: A Top Threat to Pet Safety at Home

Your kitchen may be the heart of your home, but for pets, it’s also full of hidden dangers. Every year, thousands of animals are seen across the country for eating things they shouldn’t, including some human foods. Foods like chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and anything containing xylitol (a sugar substitute) are highly toxic to pets. 

Even if you think dangers are out of reach, pets are skilled at counter-surfing and some industrious pets have even been known to open pantry doors or trash bins. We’ve also treated some naughty dogs who have ingested broken dishes covered in food!

PET-PROOFING tips:

 

• Use childproof locks on lower cabinets.

• Keep trash bins secure and out of reach.

• Avoid leaving food unattended on counters.

• Be cautious with breakable dishes—shards and all!

2. Medicine Cabinets and Bathrooms: A Critical Focus for Pet-Proofing Your Home

Whether it’s prescription medications or personal care products, bathrooms are full of substances that can be harmful to pets. Pets can easily ingest human drugs, and sometimes (depending on the medication), even one little pill may be enough to cause serious effects. Common hazards include anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen and aspirin), beta-blockers, asthma inhalers and even medications for mental health issues such as depression, ADHD and autism. Don’t forget that medicinal and recreational drugs can be dangerous to our pets too!

Pet-proofing tips:

 

• Store all medications in high, secure locations, off of nightstands and counters.

• Be mindful of bleach and other bathroom cleaners

• Keep toilet lids closed (some pets drink from them!).

3. Garage Dangers: A Hidden Threat to Household Pet Safety

The garage often contains automotive fluids, deicers, lawn treatments, and sharp tools—many of which pose a danger to pets. Most fertilizers may only cause GI upset, but antifreeze, in particular, smells sweet to animals and is extremely toxic.

Pet-proofing tips:

 

• Clean up spills immediately, especially motor oil and antifreeze.

• Store all chemicals behind locked doors or on high shelves.

• Keep sharp garden tools and machinery unplugged and out of reach.

4. Basements and Closets: Out of Sight, But Still Important in Pet-Proofing Your Home

Basements and storage closets often become catch-all areas for paints, batteries, glues, solvents, and rodenticides—all of which pose significant health risks. Rodent poison, especially, is a major risk since it’s designed to taste good.

Pet-proofing tips:

 

• Store hazardous items in pet-proof containers off the floor and lower shelves.

• Check these areas regularly for leaks, spills, or chewed packages.

• Avoid using rat bait or keep it away from pet-accessible areas.

5. Outdoor Spaces: Garden and Yard Safety for Dogs and Cats

Nature isn’t always pet-friendly. In Colorado, wildlife like snakes, coyotes, porcupines, or deer can cause serious harm. Some plants (like lilies, mushrooms, and onions) are toxic to pets, and others (like cacti) can cause injuries. Don’t forget, especially when the snow is falling or melting, that metal yard edging can cut up those paws!

Pet-proofing tips:

 

• Know which plants are toxic and remove or fence them off.

• Supervise outdoor time and inspect the yard for hazards.

• Be mindful of seasonal chemicals (such as fertilizers and ice melts) and use pet-friendly options when possible.

Preventing Household Dangers for Dogs and Cats: Pet Safety Starts at Home

Pet safety at home starts with awareness and a little preparation. We see all of these exposures on a regular basis at Veterinary Specialists of the Rockies. A simple walk-through of your house—especially these five key areas—can help prevent accidents, injuries, or toxin exposures. If you feel your pet is ill, injured, or has been exposed to a toxin, don’t hesitate to call our team. Veterinary Specialists of the Rockies is here to help!  This article was written by our emergency and critical care specialist, Dr. Andrew Linklater, who is available to assist our team with even the most complex cases.