Background:
Many rodent poisons are composed of anticoagulants, which can be
equally fatal to your pet. Rat poisons are a common cause of
toxicity in pets because they are palatable and are frequently
placed where dogs and cats may easily find them. Common rat poisons
which contain the anticoagulant warfarin include: D-Con, Ward 42,
Rax, Rodex, Tox hid, Ratifin, Rat-a-way, Lurat, Krunkill, and
Fumisol. More potent anticoagulants, such as bromadiolone and
brodifacoum, are contained in: Mouse Prufe II, Havoc, Talon, Weather
Block, Super Caid, Ratimus, and Contrac.
How it works:
Anticoagulants block the synthesis of vitamin K, which is an
essential requirement for normal clotting. Only small amounts of
warfarin, the most commonly used anticoagulant, are needed to
prevent vitamin K synthesis.
Clinical
signs:
Signs of rat poisoning may occur almost immediately, or may take
several days to appear. Common signs include depression and
lethargy, shortness of breath, nose bleeds or gum bleeds, bruising
and vomiting.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis of rodenticide toxicity include a series of blood tests
and blood clotting tests. During the initial stages of diagnosis,
veterinarians will often place animals on vitamin K therapy to
control life-threatening bleeding disorders.
Treatment:
If you suspect that your pet may have ingested rodent poison, it is
essential that you have your pet examined by a veterinarian. If at
all possible, bring the packaging of the rodent poison to aid your
vet in choosing an appropriate treatment.
Treatment for rodenticide poisoning
includes intravenous or oral vitamin K therapy. Depending on the
severity of clinical signs, your pet may require hospitalization and
supportive care, including intravenous fluids or possibly a blood
transfusion. However, once the animal is stabilized, treatment may
be continued at home. The length of treatment may be up to three to
four weeks. Your veterinarian will monitor your pet’s response to
the vitamin K therapy to determine when you pet has fully recovered.
During the treatment period, it is a good idea to limit exercise and
contact with other pets, to prevent potential bruising or bloodshed.
|
