WINTER HAZARDS FOR PETS
ASPCA, December 2009

Low Toxicity: (may cause gastrointestinal upset, but unlikely to cause serious problems unless very large amounts are ingested)

• Silica gel desiccant packs (may pose foreign body hazard if swallowed intact)
• Christmas tree preservatives (stale water in tree stand can harbor bacteria)
• Poinsettias
• Holly
• Canned "snow"
• Mistletoe, American (the most common found in the US)

Moderate toxicity: (may cause significant signs beyond mild gastrointestinal upset)

• Ice melting products (see below)
• Liquid potpourri
• Batteries
• Mistletoe, European (rarely used as holiday decoration)

High toxicity: (potential for very serious or life-threatening signs)

• Antifreeze/coolants
• Chocolate
• Rising bread dough (yeast produce ethanol; dough is expanding foreign body concern)
• Human medications (cold and flu medications, decongestants)
• Alcoholic beverages
• Homemade "play-dough (high sodium content)
• Xylitol in holiday baked goods

For further information, go to http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/.