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www.ahwatukeeanimalcare.com
Dangers of Rodent Bait There are several general classifications of rodent poison (rodenticide) available over the counter. The most common poison is one that prevents blood clotting, and is called an anticoagulant. D-Con being the most easily recognized in light of the recent bans on second generation anticoagulant rodenticides. Anticoagulant rodenticides can come in many forms from liquids, to pellets, to blocks. They are made to be palatable, thus the increase in risk to pets. When they are ingested the active ingredient is absorbed and begins blocking Vitamin K. Vitamin K is not a vitamin in the traditional sense. Instead, it is a molecule used by the blood during the clotting process. Unfortunately signs of sickness begin days after ingestion of these anticoagulant poisons. Usually signs start with weakness, tiredness, and then progress to coughing. Nearly 100% of cases of anticoagulant poisonings start with bleeding into the lungs.
Treatment of these poisonings depends on how soon the pet is brought in for treatment as well as the severity of that pet's illness. The prognosis and survival rate is dependent on early recognition of signs and treatment. If a pet owner is aware that their pet ate poison, vomiting can be induced to remove as much of the poison as possible and the pet can be started on Vitamin K supplement therapy until all of the poison leaves the body. This reduces the risk of bleeding and the pet has an excellent prognosis with appropriate monitoring.
Since recent bans on anticoagulant rodenticides, other forms of rodent bait are becoming more popular. These types of baits contain neurologic type poisons. The most common neurologic poison is Bromethalin. Bromethalin ingestion causes severe brain swelling, seizures, and death in all mammals. All mammals from rodents, cats, dogs, and small children are at very high risk for death if ingestion occurs.
Owner awareness is critical to saving the life of the pet. Knowing what poisons are on the property and ensuring that pets do not have access is the first step in prevention of poisoning. Then, making sure to check those poisons regularly, so if it is ingested, early treatment can be started.
For more information on poisonous foods, plants and household substances, please visit this link to our Poisons page.
Call us at 480-893-0533 (during regular business hours) immediately to let us know you are on your way so we can prepare for your arrival.
If it is outside of our regular business hours, call First Pet Animal Emergency Hospital at 480 732-0018 or click on our Emergencies link and call one of the emergency numbers listed there. |