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Antifreeze poisoning in cats: A winter danger

As the weather turns colder, many people top up their car screen wash or radiators with antifreeze – but did you know that ethylene glycol, a substance found in antifreeze can be fatal to cats?

Ethylene glycol is a sweet tasting, but highly toxic chemical. Sadly, ingesting just a few drops can cause fatal kidney failure in cats.

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Signs of antifreeze poisoning occur very quickly and can include:

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-Weakness or unsteadiness

-Vomiting

-Excessive thirst and urination,

-Rapid breathing

-Seizures.

 

If you suspect your cat has had access to antifreeze, it is important to act fast as early detection and treatment is crucial, unfortunately if clinical signs have developed treatment may not be successful. The prognosis of antifreeze poisoning is very poor.

Picture of a cat in the snow

Prevention is the best way forward so we would encourage:

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-Cleaning up any spills right away

-Storing all antifreeze products securely out of reach

-Considering using anti-freezer products that do not contain ethylene glycol

 

If you are ever worried that your cat may have been exposed to antifreeze call us immediately on 01386240220.

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