Antifreeze poisoning in pets

Antifreeze might seem like just another winter essential, but to pets it can be deadly. Even in small amounts, the toxic chemicals found in many antifreeze products can cause severe illness, and in many cases, kidney failure and death.

In the UK alone, Cats Protection has monitored press reports indicating up to around 50 cat deaths per month from suspected antifreeze poisoning.

Here’s what every pet owner needs to know to keep their dog or cat safe from this hidden seasonal danger.

What is antifreeze poisoning?

Antifreeze commonly used in the colder months to help defrost vehicles contains a chemical called ethylene glycol. This substance is highly toxic to pets and, unfortunately, can be very attractive to them because of its sweet taste.

When a pet ingests ethylene glycol, it’s rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream and broken down into harmful by-products, particularly ones that can damage the kidneys and other vital organs.

Even very small amounts can be dangerous. In cats, as little as a teaspoon can be fatal, and slightly more in dogs.

Common signs of antifreeze poisoning

Symptoms can appear within hours of ingestion and often before the pet looks obviously unwell. Signs to watch out for include:

• Excessive thirst and urination
• Vomiting or nausea
• Lethargy or weakness
• Uncoordinated, wobbling behaviour
• Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing
• Tremors, seizures or collapse

In some cases, pets may appear to briefly improve before their condition worsens because internal organs are already being damaged even if outward symptoms seem mild.

What to do if you suspect poisoning

If you think your pet has been exposed to antifreeze, the most important thing you can do is act quickly:

1. Contact your vet immediately. Don’t wait for symptoms to show.
2. If possible, take the container or a photo of the product with you to the vet.
3. Do not try to make your pet vomit at home unless your vet advises it.

Antifreeze poisoning is a medical emergency, and the sooner treatment begins, the better the chances of survival. For dogs, antidotes like fomepizole are most effective if given within 8-12 hours of ingestion, while cats need treatment even sooner.

How is antifreeze poisoning treated?

Once at the vet, treatment may include:

• Hospitalisation with intravenous fluids
• Antidotes that block the toxic effects of ethylene glycol
• Supportive care to protect kidney function

Unfortunately, once kidney damage develops, the prognosis becomes much poorer, which is why early action is so important.

How can you prevent antifreeze poisoning?

The good news is many cases are preventable with a few simple precautions:

• Store antifreeze and other automotive fluids securely and out of reach
• Clean up any spills or drips immediately. Even a few drops are enough to be dangerous
• Regularly check vehicles and garage floors for leaks
• Consider using pet-safe antifreeze (propylene glycol) where available. It’s much less attractive to animals and far safer if accidentally ingested.

Final thoughts

Antifreeze poisoning remains one of the most serious seasonal risks for pets, but it’s also one of the most preventable.

By understanding the dangers, recognising the early signs, and acting quickly if exposure occurs, you can make a life-saving difference for your dog, cat, or other furry companion. It might be helpful to review some basic first aid for pets to help keep your pet safe and comfortable until you can get your pet to a vet.

If you ever need advice or are unsure whether your pet has been exposed to something toxic, contact your vet straight away. Every minute counts.