Paws Off! Protecting Your Pet from Antifreeze Toxicity

Why is antifreeze toxic to pets?

Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, a chemical that can severely damage a pet’s kidneys and nervous system if swallowed and can be fatal without prompt treatment. Unfortunately, many pets are attracted to ethylene glycol’s sweet smell and taste, which puts them at risk if they come across a leak or spill. Only a tiny amount of antifreeze can be harmful—a teaspoon can be deadly for a cat, while a few tablespoons can seriously threaten the life of a medium-sized dog.

What are antifreeze toxicity signs in pets?

Antifreeze poisoning is especially dangerous because signs don’t appear immediately. Early signs can take 30 minutes to 12 hours to develop after ingestion, so the problem can be hard to detect until the pet’s prognosis is poor. Here’s what to look for:

• Early signs (30 minutes to 12 hours) 
  • Uncoordinated movements, stumbling
  • Vomiting
  • Excessive drooling
  • Increased thirst and urination
  • Lethargy
  • Disorientation
• Later signs (12 to 24 hours) 
  • Reduced or lack of urination
  • Rapid breathing and increased heart rate
  • Seizures
  • Severe lethargy, often leading to coma

If you know or suspect your pet ingested antifreeze, seek emergency veterinary care. Since antifreeze toxicity progresses rapidly, the sooner treatment begins, the better your pet’s chance for recovery.

How is antifreeze toxicity treated in pets?

Treatment for antifreeze ingestion depends on the amount of time that has passed since the pet swallowed the antifreeze and the severity of toxicity. Potential treatments include:

• Inducing vomiting and decontamination — If your pet has recently ingested antifreeze (i.e., usually within one to two hours), your veterinarian may induce vomiting to remove the antifreeze from their stomach. They may also give your pet activated charcoal to help absorb leftover toxins in the system. While your veterinarian will sometimes induce vomiting for pets with antifreeze toxicity, never cause your pet to vomit before consulting a veterinary professional, since it may cause more harm than good.
• Intravenous (IV) fluids — To help flush the antifreeze out of the pet’s system and protect the kidneys, your veterinarian will likely administer IV fluids. This helps keep your pet hydrated and supports kidney function while their body eliminates the poison.
• Antidotes — Medications can treat antifreeze toxicity by preventing the body from turning ethylene glycol into harmful byproducts that damage the kidneys. These antidotes are most effective when given within eight hours of ingestion.

How can antifreeze toxicity in pets be prevented?

The best protection against antifreeze poisoning is keeping the product out of your pet’s reach and ensuring your home and garage are safe. Specific tips include:

• Store antifreeze in a secure, closed container in a locked cabinet or on a high shelf that your pet can’t access.
• Clean up any spilled antifreeze thoroughly as soon as possible. Only a few drops on the garage floor or driveway can attract a curious pet.
• Some antifreeze brands offer propylene glycol-based formulas, which are less toxic to pets if ingested. These products aren’t risk-free, but are far safer than traditional ethylene glycol antifreeze.
• Inspect your parking area regularly for antifreeze leaks.

Antifreeze is one of winter’s most serious hidden dangers for pets, but with proper precautions, you can protect your furry friend from harm. If you know or suspect your pet ingested antifreeze, contact your AAHA-accredited veterinarian as soon as possible, so they can provide the necessary emergency care.