Rat Bait Toxicity

What happens if my dog or cat eats rat bait?

Initially, it might look like nothing happens. But after a few days they may become unwell as they start to suffer from internal bleeding.

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What does rat bait toxicity look like?

Rodenticide toxicity can cause the animal to appear weak, tired or wobbly. Their gums may look pale pink or white. They may suddenly start coughing, and they may cough up blood and struggle to breathe. They might vomit, and there might be blood in the vomit. You might see blood in their urine, or in their stools. ​​​

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How do you diagnose rat bait toxicity?

After a thorough physical exam with our vets, blood clotting times are measured to confirm rat bait toxicity.

We will also assess if there has been a significant amount of blood loss. 

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How do you treat rat bait toxicity?

If you caught your dog in the act of eating the rat bait, then seeing our vets immediately is critical! We can use medications to make them vomit and prevent them from being affected by the rat bait.

If they are already unwell, then Initial treatment is with high doses of Vitamin K to block the action of the rat bait.

Some patients will need other treatments such as a blood transfusion. ​

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Think your dog or cat has eaten rat bait?

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