It’s officially Spring! This season brings more than just leafy trees and fresh blooms. It also brings more time outside with our furry friends, long walks, longer days, and activities like home improvement projects and gardening! However, like all changing seasons, Spring brings some seasonal hazards for our furry friends.

Not to worry, though, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) has some tips below to keep your pets safe, happy and healthy!

On beautiful, breezy days, many pet parents like to keep the windows open. Unfortunately, this  puts pets at risk—especially cats, who are apt to jump or fall through unscreened windows. Be sure to install snug and sturdy screens in all of your windows before leaving them open and unattended.

Spring cleaning is a time-honored tradition in many households but be sure to keep all cleaners and chemicals out of your pets’ way! Almost all cleaning products, even all natural ones, contain chemicals that may be harmful to pets. The key to using them safely is to read and follow label directions for proper use and storage. The APCC has a full list of poisonous household products so you can be certain of the products you’re brining into your home.

Fertilizers, insecticides and herbicides keep our plants and lawns healthy and green, but their ingredients may be dangerous to pets. Always store these products in out-of-the-way places, keep pets out of affected areas and follow label instructions carefully. Many popular springtime plants—including rhododendron and azaleas—are also highly toxic to pets and can prove fatal if eaten. Check out our full list of toxic and non-toxic plants for your home and garden to find pet-friendly plants.

Products such as paints, mineral spirits and solvents can be toxic to your pets and cause severe irritation or chemical burns. Carefully read all labels to see if the product is safe to use around your furry friends. Also, be cautious of physical hazards, including nails, staples, insulation, blades and power tools. It may be wise to confine your dog or cat to a designated pet-friendly room during home improvement projects.

Pesky parasites like fleas and ticks start appearing during the spring. Make sure your pet is on year-round heartworm preventive medication and follow our guide to prepare for flea and tick season!

If you think your pet has ingested a toxic substance, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately.