Many pets become seriously ill due to antifreeze poisoning, especially during the winter months. The symptoms pets display can range from increased urination to falling into a coma; ingestion of antifreeze can lead to kidney failure and death. NOTE: If your pet has ingested any amount of antifreeze, it is a medical emergency and you need to bring your pet to the ER for immediate care.

Antifreeze poisoning is a distressing situation, but it's good to know that there are preventative measures you can take, which we'll discuss in this blog. If you do suspect your dog or cat licked antifreeze, bring them to your nearest VEG asap. We'll ensure prompt medical attention, and you can stay with your pet throughout treatment, even if overnight hospitalization is required.

WHAT IS ETHYLENE (ANTIFREEZE) AND WHY IS IT TOXIC OR LETHAL TO PETS?

Antifreeze, commonly used in cars, contains ethylene glycol, which is extremely toxic to dogs and cats. Dogs are more commonly exposed but cats are extremely sensitive (1 tsp is potentially lethal to an adult cat).

Car engine leak is the most common source of antifreeze exposure, and a home garage is the most common area for accidental ingestion. As responsible pet owners, it’s crucial to recognize the signs of this deadly toxin, so that you can take action for your pet immediately.

Symptoms of antifreeze poisoning worsen as time passes. It's critical to bring your pet to the emergency vet as soon as you suspect antifreeze ingestion. VEG is open 24 hours to treat you pet.

WHY IS ANTIFREEZE SO DANGEROUS FOR DOGS AND CATS?

Antifreeze is particularly alluring to pets because of its sweet taste, which can be tempting for our canine and feline companions. It is rapidly absorbed (blood levels detectable in 30 minutes) and just a small amount can be lethal, leading to kidney failure, nervous system damage, and, in many cases, death. As soon as you suspect your dog or cat might have ingested antifreeze, it is essential to seek emergency veterinary attention.

EARLY SIGNS OF ETHYLENE (ANTIFREEZE) POISONING IN PETS

Symptoms of antifreeze poisoning can show up as quickly as within a half an hour. Below are the signs that will show up early if a pet drank antifreeze (within 30 minutes to 12 hours):

Stumbling and becoming uncoordinated can indicate a cat or dog drank antifreeze

Look for stumbling, dizziness, or any unsteady behavior. These signs may be noted within 1-2 hours of ingestion.

Stuporous mentation (a nearly unconscious state)

Pets may appear depressed, nearly unconscious within 1-2 hours of ingestion. The stupor phase gradually subsides over several hours and may go unnoticed, especially in outdoor pets. Owners might feel that the pet is “getting better.” Don't let this fool you. Your pet needs to be seen by a trained emergency veterinarian.

Excessive drinking and urination may mean a cat or dog ingested antifreeze

Pet owners whose cat or dog drank antifreeze may see a sudden increase in their pet's drinking and urination.

Nausea, anorexia, drooling, and vomiting are signs that a pet drank antifreeze

Some pets might appear nauseous (lip smacking), drool excessively, or even vomit. Some pet’s will also lose interest in eating.

If pet drank antifreeze, it could lead to seizures and tremors

In more severe cases or larger ingestions, your pet might experience seizures and tremors. This unfortunately indicates a grave prognosis.

LATE SYMPTOMS OF ETHYLENE (ANTIFREEZE) POISONING IN PETS

Read below to know what to look for in the later stages of pet's antifreeze poisoning (12 to 72 hours after ingestion):

Depression or lethargy from ethylene glycol ingestion

Pets will start to gradually show more weakness and depression in late stages of antifreeze poisoning. A dog or cat may seem particularly tired and uninterested in their surroundings.

Antifreeze ingestion can cause difficulty breathing in dog or cat

Respiratory issues can arise, and your pet might start breathing quicker and more labored than normal in the later stages of antifreeze poisoning.

Antifreeze poisoning in cats or dogs can lead to kidney failure

Symptoms might include a decrease or cessation of urine production, painful kidneys (pain when the back area is touched), vomiting, and anorexia.

Cat or dog may drift into a coma as a late symptom of antifreeze poisoning

In the worst cases of antifreeze poisoning, a pet may fall into a coma. It is crucial to bring your pet to the emergency veterinarian at the first sign that they've ingested antifreeze.

Antifreeze ingestion is highly toxic to cats and can be fatal. If you think your cat licked antifreeze, bring your pet immediately to see a VEG emergency vet for care.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU THINK YOUR DOG OR CAT DRANK ANTIFREEZE

If you believe your pet has ingested antifreeze, even a few licks, time is of the essence. The greatest window of opportunity for intervention is <8-12 hours after exposure in dogs, and <2 hours after exposure in cats. Do not wait to see if symptoms develop. The prognosis is worse >12-24 hours after ingestion, when overt clinical signs are prominent. It’s crucial to take these actions immediately:

Contact a VEG emergency vet immediately for your cat or dog

Call your nearest VEG and explain the situation clearly. Include the amount you believe was ingested and any symptoms you’ve noticed. You should always bring your pet to see the emergency vet for treatment as antifreeze is toxic to your pet and can be fatal.

Do not try at-home treatments if your pet drank antifreeze

While it’s tempting to search for a quick remedy for antifreeze poisoning, this could lead to more harm. You must contact an experienced emergency vet at your nearest VEG.

Keep your pet calm if you suspect your cat or dog drank antifreeze

As you prepare to take your pet to the emergency vet hospital, keep them as calm and comfortable as possible.

4 WAYS TO PREVENT ANTIFREEZE POISONING IN PETS

The best way to prevent antifreeze poisoning is to ensure that your pet never comes into contact with it. Below are tips to follow:

1. Store antifreeze securely

   As temperatures get colder, pets are more likely to come across the risk of antifreeze ingestion. Spills in the driveway, garage, and even plumbing systems, can have a few drops or a puddle that attracts pets. Make sure antifreeze is stored out of your pet’s reach and in a sealed container.

2. Check your car for antifreeze leaks

   Even a small puddle of antifreeze can be tempting for your pet. Be diligent about looking under your car in the winter to ensure there aren't any leaks puddling up under your vehicle that would pose a danger to pets.

3. Clean up antifreeze spills immediately

   If you spill any antifreeze, clean it up right away and prevent your pet from accessing the area. You can sprinkle cat litter to sop up spills.

4. Use pet-safe antifreeze

   There are antifreeze products available that are less toxic to pets. We suggest always using pet-safe antifreeze (propylene glycol) when possible, but remain diligent to clean up spills and follow the tips above.

VEG EMERGENCY VET IS OPEN 24 HOURS TO HELP YOUR PET

At the VEG, our team is trained to handle emergency situations like antifreeze poisoning. If you suspect your pet has ingested antifreeze or is showing any related symptoms, do not hesitate to visit one of our locations. We prioritize your pet’s health and well-being and will triage your pet immediately.

Awareness is key. Understanding the symptoms of antifreeze poisoning and acting promptly can mean the difference between life and death for your furry friend. Always be vigilant and put safety measures in place to protect your pet from dangers like antifreeze.