Anti Freeze Posioning

PET DISEASE AND ALLERGIES: ANTIFREEZE POISONING

Background: Antifreeze, or ethylene glycol, is a commonly available coolant for most water-cooled engines. It may also be used as an antifreeze in winter weather. Unfortunately, the chemical is very toxic and can be lethal, even in small amounts, to all animals. Dogs and cats are naturally curious and will taste everything. Antifreeze is somewhat sweet and is often palatable to dogs. Newer coolants are now available that eliminate this sweet taste, but ethylene glycol nonetheless remains the most common coolant. Antifreeze is easily identified by its fluorescent green color. Rapidly absorbed by the gastrointestinal system, even very small doses of antifreeze can be fatal, if left untreated. The liquid itself is not toxic. When it is processed by the body, however, it can produce severe metabolic changes and cause irreversible damage to the kidneys.

Clinical Signs: Signs of antifreeze poisoning include changes in breathing patterns, vomiting, depression, lack of coordination, seizures, coma and death. These symptoms can occur anytime from 30 minutes to 12 hours after ingestion. The prognosis depends on when treatment is initiated and on the amount ingested. Kidney failure may occur despite treatment, resulting in increased urination and thirst, which may lead to death.

Diagnosis: Diagnosis is usually based on identifiable exposure to antifreeze or specific clinical signs.

Treatment: If you suspect that your pet may have ingested antifreeze, induce vomiting immediately by orally administering some hydrogen peroxide (give three tablespoons first, then as needed). Immediately bring your pet to the veterinarian and announce an emergency.

Your veterinarian will hospitalize your pet for emergency and supportive care. Treatment may include the administration of activated charcoal to absorb the toxin, the injection of intravenous fluids and an antidote (one of two treatments: 4-methylpyrazole or ethanol, to counteract the action of the antifreeze metabolites). Long-term recuperative therapy may include a change in diet or a prescription diet that is appropriate for pets with renal failure

You should not rely, on the veterinary advice or any other information provided on this site for the diagnosis or treatment of any specific condition. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the medical condition or general treatment of your pet. Worldclassgsd.com accepts no liability related to the veterinary advice and information provided on this site.