Rodenticide / pesticide poisoning
CRITICAL
Rodenticide / pesticide poisoning
Poisoning
Extremely dangerous. There are many types of poison and each needs a different antidote — bring the packaging.
Symptoms to watch for
- ▸ Unusual bleeding (gums, stool, urine)
- ▸ Bruising under the skin
- ▸ Laboured breathing, coughing up blood
- ▸ Weak legs, loss of balance
- ▸ Seizures, trembling
- ▸ Sudden lethargy
DO THIS NOW (in order)
- 1 BRING the product packaging or photograph the label — this decides which antidote is used
- 2 Call the clinic IMMEDIATELY and name the product
- 3 Note the time it was eaten (if you know)
- 4 Keep your pet calm and still (movement spreads the toxin faster)
- 5 Reach the vet within 1 hour — many of these poisons have an antidote if treated early
NEVER DO THIS
- ✕ DO NOT throw away the packaging or clean up the scene (it is evidence)
- ✕ DO NOT give 'natural' antidotes yourself (milk, home-made activated charcoal)
- ✕ DO NOT induce vomiting — some corrosive substances do more damage coming back up
- ✕ DO NOT give food or water until the vet tells you to
Getting there safely
Put your pet in a carrier and keep them warm. Drive smoothly — no hard braking. A second person holds the pet upright and watches their breathing.
While you wait for the vet
- ▸ Monitor breathing continuously (count for 15 seconds × 4)
- ▸ Watch the gums — pale means internal bleeding
- ▸ Record any blood or fluid your pet passes
- ▸ Keep them warm with a blanket (shock lowers body temperature)
RED FLAG — get emergency care right away if you see:
- Bleeding from the mouth/nose/anus
- Chalk-white gums
- Loss of consciousness
- Continuous seizures
- Breathing has stopped
This guide does NOT replace a vet's diagnosis. Always contact the clinic, even if your pet seems fine.