Rat Poison Consumption

What to Do if Your Pet Eats Rat Poison

Even the smallest amount of rat poison can be lethal to your pet. Dogs are particularly attracted to the taste, making it easy for them to ingest. Rat poison contains toxic ingredients that cause severe illness.

Our emergency veterinarians in Millard and Omaha, NE, are equipped to treat rat poisoning in pets, ensuring they receive the necessary care after toxic ingestion. If you suspect your pet has consumed rat poison, seek immediate veterinary attention. For more details, visit Urgent Pet Care.

Why is it Toxic for Pets?

Rat poison is a type of rodenticide that contains chemicals designed to kill rodents. These chemicals can be extremely toxic to pets, causing severe health issues or even death.

Anticoagulants

Anticoagulants in rat poison work by interfering with the body’s use of vitamin K, essential for blood clotting. This causes internal bleeding, which can be fatal if not treated. Symptoms of poisoning may take a few days to appear. If you suspect your pet has ingested an anticoagulant rodenticide, seek immediate veterinary care.

Bromethalin

Bromethalin in rat poison increases sodium in body cells, causing them to swell and die, primarily affecting the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Ingesting large amounts can be rapidly fatal, while smaller amounts may cause symptoms over one to two weeks. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if ingestion is suspected.

Cholecalciferol

Cholecalciferol, found in some rat poisons, raises calcium levels in the body, which can lead to kidney failure, heart issues, and potentially death. Symptoms may not appear until 12 to 36 hours after ingestion. If you suspect your pet has consumed cholecalciferol, seek immediate veterinary care.

Symptoms of Ingestion

Symptoms of rat poison ingestion vary according to the type of poison ingested but can include:

• Bleeding from the gums
• Bloody nose
• Collapse
• Coma
• Coughing up blood
• Decreased or increased thirst or urination
• Difficulty breathing
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Pale gums
• Seizures
• Tremors
• Vomiting
• Vomiting blood

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