Antifreeze Dangers

Dog and cat owners are advised to observe their pets during the winter months for dangers of antifreeze poisoning.

Pet owners should always be aware of the dangers for pets that can be found around the house. In the winter months, antifreeze is one of these dangers. Antifreeze is a common freeze preventative used in car engines.  Its sweet scent and taste is appetizing to dogs and cats, who will drink the liquid if left unattended. Antifreeze is extremely toxic and causes kidney failure; even a small amount can be fatal to a pet in just a few days.

Treatment for this condition is dependent on how early the pet is seen after ingestion, but may include inducing vomiting, inserting charcoal in the stomach to bind antifreeze in the intestine, kidney dialysis, and even kidney transplantation.

Here are a few recommendations to help guard against poisoning instances:

• Keep both new and used antifreeze in sealed containers, out of reach of pets.
• Clean up any spills of antifreeze on driveways and other surfaces.
• Keep pets confined when changing or working with antifreeze.

Treatment for antifreeze poisoning needs to begin as soon after ingestion as possible to be effective. Signs of ingestion include:

• Depression
• Staggering
• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Extreme Thirst
• Abdominal Sensitivity