These home office items are dangerous for pets

Last updated: October 2026 

Key takeaways

• Everyday office equipment can create overlooked risks for curious pets
• Cords, batteries, stationery, food, medication and plants should be stored carefully
• Dogs and cats may face different hazards depending on how they explore their surroundings
• A few simple changes can help you pet-proof your home office
• Knowing what to do after a possible poisoning or injury can help you act promptly

Working from home can mean more time with your pet, whether they are sleeping beside your chair, walking across your keyboard or appearing unexpectedly during a video call.

However, an office designed for people may contain items that are not suitable for curious paws and mouths. Pet-proofing your workspace can help reduce some everyday risks, while you may also wish to consider whether Real Pet Insurance is suitable for you and your pet.

The good news is that you do not need to redesign the whole room. By identifying common household hazards for dogs and household hazards for cats, you can make practical changes that help keep your four-legged family members safer.

1. Electrical cords and charging cables

Power cords, laptop chargers and extension wires can be tempting to pets that enjoy chewing or playing with long, moving objects.

Damaged electrical cords may expose your pet to burns or other injuries. Loose cables can also become tangled around paws, while equipment connected to a cord may fall if it is pulled.

To reduce the risk:

• Run cables behind furniture where possible
• Use sturdy cord covers or cable organisers
• Unplug and store chargers when they are not being used
• Replace damaged cables rather than covering exposed sections with tape
• Keep heavy devices away from the edge of your desk

Keep reading: How to puppy proof your house

2. Batteries and small electronic accessories

Wireless mice, keyboards, calculators and remote controls may contain batteries. Spare batteries can also end up loose in drawers or on desktops.

Button batteries are particularly concerning because they are small and easy to swallow. When a button battery comes into contact with moisture, it can produce a strong alkaline substance that may cause serious internal burns. Other batteries may also leak harmful chemicals if chewed.

Store new and used batteries in a closed container inside a secure cupboard. Dispose of old batteries promptly through an appropriate recycling service.

Other small accessories, including USB drives, memory cards, earbuds and removable keyboard keys, should also be kept out of reach. Even when an item is not toxic – chewing or swallowing it may cause an injury.                                                         

3. Pens, pins and other stationery

A cup filled with pens and highlighters may look harmless, but it can quickly become a source of interesting new “toys”.

Common office supplies that should be stored securely include:

• Drawing pins, staples and paper clips
• Scissors, craft knives and letter openers
• Rubber bands
• Glue, adhesives and correction products
• Plastic document sleeves and packaging
• String, ribbon and shredded paper

Keep sharp objects inside a drawer and place small stationery in containers with secure lids. Empty shredders regularly and unplug them when not in use, particularly if your pet can reach the controls.

Cats often explore elevated spaces, so moving an item to the back of a desk may not be enough. A closed drawer or cupboard is generally a safer option.

Keep reading: How to protect your cat

4. Desk snacks, coffee and rubbish bins

A snack can help you through a busy afternoon, but food left beside your laptop may attract an opportunistic pet.

Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and other animals at certain doses.  Other foods and drinks, including coffee, caffeinated products, grapes, raisins and products containing xylitol, may also be harmful to pets.

Keep food in sealed containers and clear away plates, cups and wrappers as soon as you finish. Use a bin with a secure lid rather than an open wastepaper basket.

This is especially important when working in another room or leaving the house. A pet that usually ignores your food may behave differently when unsupervised.

Keep reading: How to keep your pets safe over the holidays

5. Medication, creams and hand sanitiser

Pain relief pills, cold and flu tablets, prescription medication and topical creams sometimes make their way onto an office desk.

Human medication should never be given to a pet unless a veterinarian has specifically instructed you to do so. The Animal Poisons Helpline regularly receives calls about pets chewing packets containing anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen. The level of risk can depend on the medicine, amount, animal species and body weight.

Store medicines, supplements, creams and hand sanitiser in a closed cupboard. Do not rely on child-resistant packaging, as it may not withstand a determined pet’s teeth.

Be careful with handbags and laptop bags too. Medication kept inside a bag is still accessible if the bag is left open on the floor.

6. Indoor plants

Making your home office truly productive takes a bit of work, but even the smallest addition can boost your mood and increase your productivity. In fact, research shows that adding a plant to your desk can improve concentration, productivity and wellbeing by 47%, and give your memory a positive injection by up to 20%.

Unfortunately for your furry friends, those indoor plants can actually pose a deadly danger if eaten. A number of common indoor and outdoor plants are deadly to dogs and cats, so it’s important to think twice before adding that pot plant to your home office. Here are a few of the most popular – and most dangerous:

• Lily
• Hydrangea
• Aloe vera
• Azalea
• Tulip
• Hibiscus

If you want to keep greenery around your home office, make sure it’s well out of reach of your pet. Even better, choose a plant or flower that isn’t deadly to animals, such as camellias, ferns and bottlebrush. 

What should you do if your pet finds something harmful?

Remove your pet from the area and contact your veterinarian promptly. Keep the item, packaging or product label nearby so you can explain what your pet may have encountered.

Do not try to make your pet vomit unless a veterinarian or the Animal Poisons Helpline tells you to do so. In some situations, inducing vomiting can cause further harm. Australian pet owners can contact the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738.

A safer workspace for everyone

Sharing your working day with a pet can be one of the best parts of having a home office. With secure storage, tidy cables and a few thoughtful routines, you can create a space that works for both of you.

Continue exploring practical advice in the Real Insurance pet health hub.

Even in a carefully managed home, unexpected accidents and illnesses can still happen. If you are considering pet insurance, you may wish to explore whether Real Pet Insurance is suitable for you and your pet.

Frequently asked questions

What are the most common home office hazards for pets?

Common hazards include electrical cords, batteries, small stationery, medicines, food, rubbish bins, unstable equipment and some plants or scented products. The exact risk will depend on your pet’s species, size and behaviour.

How can I stop my dog from chewing electrical cords?

Move cords behind furniture, use sturdy cable covers and unplug chargers when they are not needed. Provide suitable chew toys and supervise your dog while they are in the office. Speak with your veterinarian or a qualified animal behaviour professional if chewing continues.

Are office plants dangerous for cats?

Some indoor plants can be harmful if chewed or swallowed. Check each plant before bringing it into your home and remember that cats can reach high shelves. Ask your veterinarian for advice if you are unsure whether a particular species is suitable.

What should I do if my pet swallows a battery?

Contact a veterinarian or the Animal Poisons Helpline immediately. Do not wait for symptoms and do not induce vomiting unless a veterinary professional instructs you to do so. Take the battery packaging with you if it is safe and available.

Does pet insurance cover accidents involving household items?

Cover depends on the policy, circumstances and applicable terms, conditions, limits and exclusions. Review the relevant product disclosure statement to understand what is and is not covered.