Emergency
My pet ate something toxic — what now?
Call a vet now. Small animals can go downhill within hours, and some poisons (avocado in birds, chocolate, xylitol) act fast. Don’t wait for symptoms.
- Remove the food and anything else your pet could reach. Keep the packaging or a sample.
- Note what, how much and when. A rough amount (“half a grape”, “a crumb of dark chocolate”) and the time help the vet a lot.
- Call your vet, ideally one who treats exotic pets, or the nearest emergency clinic. Say the species and weight if you know it.
- Don’t try home remedies. Don’t try to make your pet vomit or give salt, oil or milk unless a vet tells you to.
- Travel safely. Keep your pet warm, quiet and secure in a well-ventilated carrier on the way. Cover part of the carrier so a bird feels safer, and avoid heat and draughts.
Animal poison helplines
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (USA): (888) 426-4435 — 24/7, a consultation fee may apply. Website
- Pet Poison Helpline (USA & Canada): (855) 764-7661 — 24/7, per-incident fee. Website
- Animal PoisonLine (UK): 01202 509000 — 24/7 triage by the Veterinary Poisons Information Service, per-call fee. Website
Helplines may charge a consultation fee. Check the website for current details.
Foods that are never safe
For hamsters
Grape, Raisin, Avocado, Potato, Onion, Garlic, Rhubarb, Chocolate, Coffee & tea (caffeine), Alcohol, Candy & sweets
For budgies
Avocado, Onion, Garlic, Rhubarb, Chocolate, Coffee & tea (caffeine), Alcohol, Potato chips (crisps), Candy & sweets
For cockatiels
Avocado, Onion, Garlic, Rhubarb, Chocolate, Coffee & tea (caffeine), Alcohol, Potato chips (crisps), Candy & sweets