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Foods and plants that are toxic to dogs and cats
Some everyday foods and plants can seriously harm pets. For dogs, the most dangerous include chocolate, grapes and raisins, xylitol (a sweetener), onions and garlic, and macadamia nuts. For cats, lilies are extremely dangerous: every part of the plant, even the pollen and vase water. If your pet eats something toxic, call your vet straight away.
General information for the UK, checked on 2026-09-23. It is not legal or veterinary advice. For your own situation, speak to a solicitor, your local council or a vet.
Dangerous for dogs
- Chocolate: dark and baking chocolate are the most dangerous
- Grapes, raisins, sultanas and currants: can cause kidney failure, even in small amounts
- Xylitol: a sweetener in sugar-free gum, some sweets and some peanut butters
- Onions, garlic, leeks and chives: raw, cooked or powdered
- Macadamia nuts, alcohol, caffeine and raw bread dough
- Human medicines such as ibuprofen
Dangerous for cats
- Lilies: all parts, including pollen and the water in the vase
- Paracetamol and other human medicines
- Dog flea treatments containing permethrin
- Onions and garlic
Dangerous for all pets
- Antifreeze
- Rat and mouse poisons
- Household cleaning products
What to do
- Call your vet or an out-of-hours vet immediately, even if your pet seems well
- Do not try to make your pet sick unless a vet tells you to
- Take the packaging or a sample of the plant with you
- For advice on whether a vet visit is needed, the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) is a 24-hour triage service for owners, which charges a fee
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if my dog eats chocolate?
Call your vet straight away, with details of the type and amount of chocolate and your dog's weight. Dark and baking chocolate are the most dangerous.
Are grapes dangerous for dogs?
Yes. Grapes, raisins, sultanas and currants can cause kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts. Contact a vet immediately if your dog eats any.
Are lilies poisonous to cats?
Yes, extremely. Every part of the lily, including the pollen and the water in the vase, can cause kidney failure in cats. Get veterinary help urgently.
Is there a pet poison helpline in the UK?
Yes. Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) is a 24-hour triage service for owners. It charges a fee per case, and it tells you whether your pet needs to see a vet.
Sources
Related guides
- Heatstroke in pets, and what to do about a dog in a hot car
- Dogs: care, health, law and costs
- Cats: care, health, law and costs
- Vet fees and your rights
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Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.