📚🐾 Back to School Pet Safety
When children return to school in late summer, backpacks, school supplies, and stationery arrive in homes — many of which contain substances that can be harmful or toxic to pets if chewed or ingested.
Top Back to School Hazards for Pets
Glue Sticks & Craft Glue
Most basic school glue sticks are non-toxic, but some craft adhesives and super glues (cyanoacrylate) can bond tissues or cause GI issues if ingested.
Pencils & Pens
Graphite in pencils is non-toxic, but chewed pen casings can have sharp edges. Marker ink (Sharpie etc.) can cause GI irritation if a cat chews the tip.
Erasers
Small erasers are a swallowing and obstruction hazard. Large amounts of rubber can cause GI obstruction.
ADHD Medications (Stimulants)
Methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines used for ADHD are extremely dangerous to both cats and dogs — causing severe cardiovascular and neurological toxicity.
Lunch Box Foods
Chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol-containing gum, and other snacks in children's lunch bags can be accessed by pets if bags are left on the floor.
Hand Sanitiser
High-alcohol hand sanitiser gels can cause alcohol toxicity in pets if licked in significant amounts.
How to Keep Your Pets Safe This Back to School
- Store backpacks in closed cupboards or hung up high — not on floors
- Keep all medications in secure, pet-proof containers
- Check lunch bags for dropped food items before putting them down
- Use closed rubbish bins in children's rooms
Emergency Steps
Call ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 immediately. Don't wait for symptoms. Have the substance packaging available when you call.
- Note what was consumed — type, amount, and time of exposure.
- Call Poison Control — (888) 426-4435, available 24/7.
- Follow their instructions — don't induce vomiting unless advised.
- Get to an emergency vet if instructed or if symptoms are present. Find a 24-hour emergency vet near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most basic school supplies are low-toxicity — but some craft glues, markers, and art materials can cause GI upset. ADHD medications in backpacks are a serious hidden hazard.
Stimulant medications like Ritalin and Adderall cause severe tachycardia, tremors, hyperthermia, and seizures in pets — often at doses much smaller than a human therapeutic dose.
Basic school glue sticks (Elmer's style) are generally non-toxic. Call Poison Control with the specific brand to confirm. Super glue (cyanoacrylate) is more concerning and can bond tissues.
Grapes, raisins, chocolate, and xylitol-containing products are common in kids' lunches and can be toxic to pets. Keep lunch bags secure and out of pet reach.