Emergency

Pet poison emergency: what to do right now

If your dog or cat ate something that might be toxic, call now — before signs appear. Ring your veterinarian, the nearest emergency vet, or one of these 24/7 animal poison lines:

• ASPCA Animal Poison Control CenterA consultation fee may apply.(888) 426-4435
• Pet Poison Helpline$99 per-incident fee (as listed Nov 7, 2026).(855) 764-7661

Numbers and fees verified on the official websites on November 7, 2026.

Do this now

1. 1Move your pet away from the substance and keep other pets away too.
2. 2Call your vet, an emergency vet or a poison line. Tell them your pet's species, weight and age.
3. 3Say what was eaten, how much, and when. Keep the package, label, plant or a photo of it.
4. 4Follow the instructions you're given. If they say come in, go now — and bring the packaging.

Don't do this

• Don't make your pet vomit unless a veterinarian or poison control tells you to. Whether it's safe depends on what was eaten and your pet's condition — that's a professional's call.
• Don't wait for signs. With grapes, xylitol and chocolate, damage can start before your pet looks sick.
• Don't give milk, oil, salt or other home remedies.
• Don't give human medicines unless your vet tells you to.

Have this information ready

• Your pet's species, breed, age and weight
• The product or plant name, and the label or packaging
• How much was eaten (or how much is missing) and roughly when
• Any signs so far: vomiting, drooling, shaking, weakness, collapse
• Any health conditions and current medicines

Finding an emergency vet

Save your nearest 24-hour emergency hospital in your phone now, before you need it. Call ahead on the way so the team is ready. If you can't reach a clinic, the poison lines above can advise you and talk to your vet.

Common emergencies

• Grapes and raisins
• Chocolate
• Xylitol (sugar-free gum)
• Onions and garlic
• Macadamia nuts
• Chocolate toxicity calculator

Sources