Cough syrups often contain dextromethorphan and/or xylitol. Both dangerous.
Dogs
Emergency risk
Cats
Emergency risk
Risk level
Danger
Symptoms
Vomiting, agitation, tremors, seizures, xylitol toxicity
What to do now
Emergency. Check for xylitol. Contact vet immediately.
Use these hub pages for broader dog, cat, cleaner, and emergency planning guidance.
Compare Cough Syrup (Dextromethorphan) with common dog food, plant, medication, and household toxicity risks.
Open hubCat poisoningSee cat-specific guidance for Cough Syrup (Dextromethorphan), plants, cleaners, foods, and medication risks.
Open hubEmergency planningPlan for emergency exams, toxin ingestion care, hospitalization, and insurance decisions.
Open hubVomiting, agitation, tremors, seizures, xylitol toxicity
Emergency. Check for xylitol. Contact vet immediately.
Plan ahead for emergency vet bills
Poisoning, broken bones, and emergency surgery can get expensive quickly. Compare costs and accident coverage before you need it.
A one-page checklist for symptoms, product labels, emergency contacts, and what to bring to the clinic.
Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs and cats. They can cause acute kidney failure even in small amounts.
All members of the allium family (onions, garlic, shallots, chives, leeks) are toxic. They damage red blood cells and can cause anemia.
Garlic is toxic to dogs and cats. It damages red blood cells, leading to anemia.
Wild mushrooms can be highly toxic. Store-bought mushrooms are generally safe, but wild ones should always be avoided.
Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause rapid insulin release, leading to severe hypoglycemia and liver failure.
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs and cats. Darker chocolate is more dangerous.