If you’re anything like me, you love having candles and potpourri around. Needless to say, however, you have to be very, very careful when you have furry little babies in the house. Curiosity can cause them to investigate and, thereby, land themselves in danger. Be sure candles are never left unattended. Also watch out for tablecloths or anything that a curious cat can pull down on herself in an attempt to check out the “fascinating” candle.

Also be sure liquid potpourri far from your pets’ reach. The essential oils in these fragrant mixes can be harmful to pets who spill it on themselves or get it on their fur. The Cationic detergents in hot scented oils can cause significant burns to a cat’s esophagus, mouth and tongue.

Try putting liquid potpourri far from your pets’ reach or using an air freshener instead.

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From the ASPCA News Alert Wire:

Each year as flea season approaches, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) receives thousands of calls from pet owners who have accidentally misused flea control products on their cats. There are almost 20 brands of products containing permethrin currently available that are labeled “for dogs only.” When used on cats—even in small amounts—these products can spell big trouble.

“The misuse of flea and tick products can be extremely harmful and even deadly to our companion animals,” says Dr. Steven Hansen, APCC Senior Vice President. Signs commonly seen with permethrin toxicity in cats include tremors, muscle fasciculation and seizures. These symptoms can develop within just hours, or may be delayed up to two days. Most cats have a good chance of recovering with prompt and aggressive veterinary treatment, which may include medication, IV fluids, bathing and other supportive care.

APCC experts urge you to consult with your veterinarian before purchasing products to control fleas on your pet or in your home—and always read the product instructions completely before using any product on your pet. Adds Hansen, “By simply taking the time to read a product label carefully, a pet owner could save his or her animal’s life.”

If you have used a flea control product and notice that your cat is exhibiting any of the above symptoms, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center’s emergency hotline at (888) 426-4435 for round-the-clock telephone assistance. For more pet poison prevention tips, please visit APCC online.

When you go to the link mentioned above (and you really, really should go to the link mentioned above!), get a load of the adorable kitten in the top banner – Those eyes!!!

Have a great, safe, fun weekend – especially all you fathers!
Joi

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