Pets have a natural curiosity, especially when they're left to explore the house on their own. While you may already pet-proof doors and garbage bins, many everyday household items can still pose unexpected dangers. Whether you’re a new pet parent or a long-time animal lover, this list can help you reduce preventable risks around your home.

Here are 10 common items that could harm your furry friend—and what you can do about them.

1. Cleaning Products

Many standard cleaners contain chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or phenols. These substances can irritate your pet’s skin, eyes, or internal organs if inhaled or ingested. Store all cleaners in a secure cabinet and look for pet-safe alternatives whenever possible.

2. Chocolate

Most pet owners know chocolate is toxic to dogs, but it’s worth repeating. Even small amounts—especially dark chocolate or cocoa powder—can lead to serious issues like vomiting, tremors, or seizures. Keep all chocolate products in high cupboards.

3. Essential Oils

Some essential oils are dangerous to pets, especially cats. Oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, and peppermint can cause respiratory distress or liver problems. If you're using a diffuser, ensure it’s placed where your pet can’t access it.

4. Houseplants

Beautiful houseplants can double as poison for pets. Common offenders include lilies (toxic to cats), aloe vera, pothos, and sago palms. Check any plant before bringing it into your space and opt for pet-safe options like spider plants or calatheas.

5. Human Medications

Painkillers, antidepressants, and cold medicines can be fatal if consumed by pets. Keep all medications stored in closed drawers or cabinets, and never leave pills unattended on counters or tables.

6. Grapes and Raisins

These seemingly harmless snacks can lead to kidney failure in dogs. Even a few grapes or a small number of raisins may cause vomiting, lethargy, or worse. Always keep fruit bowls out of reach.

7. Strings and Rubber Bands

Cats especially love to bat at string-like objects. But if ingested, strings, yarn, hair ties, or rubber bands can cause intestinal blockages that often require emergency surgery.

8. Trash Cans

Household trash is often a mix of sharp objects, spoiled food, and toxic packaging. Invest in trash cans with locking lids or keep bins behind closed doors to prevent pets from getting into something harmful.

9. Mothballs and Air Fresheners

Both of these common household products contain chemicals that are harmful when inhaled or ingested. Mothballs can be particularly dangerous due to naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, which can affect the liver and nervous system.

10. Plastic Packaging

From food wrappers to packing peanuts, many types of plastic are choking hazards. They can also cause blockages if swallowed. Always tidy up after opening packages and avoid leaving plastic items within paw’s reach.

Bonus Tip: Safe Indoor Potty Zones

Accidents happen, but traditional pee pads can create mess and confusion for urban pets. That’s where City Doggo’s Real Grass Dog Toilet comes in. It gives pets a familiar, clean space to do their business without the plastic-based mess or confusion caused by synthetic surfaces. Especially helpful for apartment living or during potty training.

Your pet depends on you for safety. By keeping these everyday dangers in check and setting up your home with thoughtful tools like City Doggo’s grass pads, you can create a more secure environment without major changes.

One or more of the links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a slight commission if you click through and make a purchase. Each of these products is chosen by a trusted member of our team.