The Dangers of Mouse Poison for Dogs
Mouse poisons contain rodenticides that can be toxic or fatal to dogs if ingested. Rodenticides prevent blood from clotting normally, resulting in uncontrolled bleeding or hemorrhaging 1. The amount of poison needed to cause harm depends on the active ingredient and the size of the dog.
Common symptoms of rodenticide poisoning in dogs include:2
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Bruising
- Nosebleeds
- Bloody urine or stool
- Difficulty breathing
As little as licking rodenticide off their paws can cause toxicity. Consuming just a small amount directly can be fatal without swift treatment. Immediate veterinary care is crucial for the best chance of survival.
How Peroxide Works
Peroxide causes vomiting by irritating the stomach lining and releasing gas. When ingested by dogs, the hydrogen peroxide reacts with the stomach’s hydrochloric acid to produce water and oxygen gas. The buildup of oxygen gas expands in the stomach, irritating the gastric lining and inducing the vomiting reflex.
Using hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting in dogs has some pros and cons. On the positive side, it is readily available in most households and easy to administer. The dosage is straightforward based on the dog’s weight. It acts quickly, usually inducing vomiting within 10-15 minutes. On the negative side, peroxide can cause irritation and inflammation of the stomach and esophagus at high doses. Repeated use can lead to gastroenteritis. Some dogs may have adverse reactions like labored breathing. Peroxide should not be used in certain situations, like if the dog has already vomited, if a caustic substance was ingested, or if there are mouth or throat obstructions.[1]
When to Induce Vomiting
Veterinarians generally recommend inducing vomiting if the dog has ingested poison within the last 2 hours and is not already showing signs of toxicity (https://todaysveterinarypractice.com/pharmacology/emetics-in-small-animals/). Inducing vomiting can help quickly eliminate any poison still in the stomach before it’s absorbed into the bloodstream. However, there are some risks with inducing vomiting that should be considered.
According to veterinary guidelines, vomiting should not be induced if the dog is already vomiting, comatose, seizing, or having difficulty breathing, as vomiting could exacerbate these conditions (https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/how-to-make-a-dog-throw-up/). It’s also not recommended for dogs who have ingested caustic substances like acid or bleach, as re-exposing the esophagus to these substances could cause additional damage.
There is also a risk of aspiration pneumonia if the dog inhales vomit into the lungs. To reduce this risk, a dog’s head should be kept low to the ground while vomiting. Additionally, the dog should be monitored for any signs of breathing issues or lethargy after inducing vomiting.
Administering Peroxide Safely
It is crucial to administer the proper dosage of hydrogen peroxide based on your dog’s weight, in order to safely induce vomiting. The general guideline is to give 1 teaspoon (5mL) per 5 pounds of body weight, up to 3 tablespoons max [1]. To calculate the dose:
- For small dogs under 10 pounds, use 1 teaspoon
- For medium dogs 10-20 pounds, use 1-2 teaspoons
- For large dogs 20-50 pounds, use 1-3 tablespoons
It’s advisable to start with a smaller dose and increase if vomiting doesn’t occur. The maximum single dose is 3 tablespoons. Do not exceed this, as too much can be dangerous [2].
To administer, first use a syringe or turkey baster to draw up the proper amount. Tilt your dog’s head up and give the hydrogen peroxide slowly in the corner of the mouth between the cheek and gums. This prevents choking. Gently blow on your dog’s nose or rub their throat to encourage swallowing. Repeat this process up to 3 times every 15 minutes until vomiting occurs.
Other First Aid Steps
If you suspect or know your dog has ingested mouse poison, it is crucial to act quickly. Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately.
Try to collect any remaining poison bait or packaging so you can identify the exact product. This will help the vet determine treatment. According to Pet Poison Helpline, bringing the packaging or knowing the product name can “make a difference in life or death.”
You may also consider administering activated charcoal to your dog, which can help absorb any toxins still in the gastrointestinal tract. Pet Poison Helpline states activated charcoal should be given within 2 hours of ingestion. Check with your vet first before giving any medication.
Having the poison control hotline number programmed in your phone or displayed visibly can save critical minutes responding to an emergency. The quicker you call, the better the outcome will likely be for your dog.
Long-Term Treatment
After the initial emergency treatment, ongoing care and monitoring will be needed to fully treat mouse poison ingestion in dogs. According to Pet Poison Helpline®, bloodwork should be done periodically to check clotting times as poisoning can cause delayed onset coagulopathy
Depending on the type of mouse poison ingested, your veterinarian may administer an antidote medication as part of the long-term treatment plan. Vitamin K1 injections or oral vitamin K1 supplements may be prescribed for several weeks to counteract the effects of anticoagulant poisons.
Supportive care such as IV fluids, anti-nausea medication, and appetite stimulants may be provided to maintain hydration and nutrition levels while your dog recovers. According to VCA Hospitals, hospitalization for several days may be necessary in severe cases of rodenticide poisoning.
Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate long-term treatment plan based on your dog’s specific condition. Follow your vet’s recommendations closely to give your dog the best chance at a full recovery.
Preventing Mouse Poison Ingestion
To avoid the dangers of mouse poison ingestion by your dog, there are some preventative steps you can take:
Use secured bait stations rather than setting out loose bait where dogs can access it. Lock bait stations prevent dogs from getting into the poison.
Store any mouse poison up high in cupboards or areas your dog cannot reach. Keep all rodenticides in their original packaging and avoid decanting into open containers.
Train your dog to “leave it” using treats and positive reinforcement. This command could stop them from eating mouse poison if they come across it.
Watch your dog closely when they are in the yard or on walks. Look for any signs they may have ingested bait and interrupt them. Keep dogs on a leash outside if poisoning is suspected in the area.
With proper precautions, you can help keep your dog safe and avoid the dangers of ingesting mouse and rat poisons meant to control pests.
Signs of Secondary Poisoning
Mouse poison can secondarily poison pets who eat poisoned rodents (1). This occurs because the toxins remain in the rodent’s body after death. If a dog or cat consumes the poisoned rodent, the toxins can be passed on through secondary poisoning.
According to Rat Poison Facts, the most likely method of secondary poisoning in pets is when they eat a poisoned mouse or rat (2). The toxins accumulate in the rodent’s liver, which pets often consume first when eating rodents.
Symptoms of secondary poisoning usually begin 12-24 hours after a pet eats a poisoned rodent (3). Signs to watch for include:
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Bleeding from the nose or mouth
- Seizures
- Difficulty breathing
- Coma
Pets exhibiting any of these symptoms after potential rodent ingestion should be taken to the vet immediately, as secondary poisoning can be fatal if left untreated.
Sources:
(1) https://www.richlandpestbee.com/blog/secondary-poisoning/
(2) http://www.ratpoisonfacts.org/risks-pets/
(3) https://diypestcontrol.com/secondary-poison-concerns
Prognosis After Ingestion
The prognosis after a dog ingests mouse poison depends on several factors, such as the type and amount of poison consumed and how quickly the dog receives veterinary treatment. According to PetMD, “Outcomes are better in pets that start treatment within 18 hours of ingestion.”
Some rodenticides like warfarin can cause secondary poisoning, leading to long-term health impacts if untreated. As noted by VCA Hospitals, “If an anticoagulant rodenticide ingestion occurred within a few hours of treatment, the prognosis is good. However, if it has been >18 hours, coagulation parameters must be monitored for up to 2 weeks.” Monitoring is crucial because symptoms may take 1-7 days to appear.
Animal Poisons explains that with timely treatment, most dogs make a full recovery. However, if treatment is delayed, the poison can cause uncontrollable bleeding leading to brain hemorrhages, organ failure, and death. Pets who survive may have permanent organ damage. According to VCA, “Dogs that recover from the acute intoxication often have resolution of the coagulation abnormalities within 1-2 weeks.”
When to Contact a Vet Immediately
If you suspect or know your dog has ingested mouse or rat poison, contact your veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic immediately. Time is critical when treating rodenticide poisoning.
Signs your dog may have ingested poison include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, poor appetite, bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, bloody urine or stool. Even if your dog is not displaying symptoms yet, call your vet, as effects may be delayed.
Let your vet know when and what type of poison you believe your dog ingested. Bring the packaging with you if possible. Your vet will want to induce vomiting and start treatment as soon as possible to prevent absorption of poison.
Without prompt veterinary treatment, the toxins in mouse and rat poisons can cause uncontrollable internal bleeding, organ damage, and death. So contact your vet immediately if poison ingestion is suspected.
