Rodenticides (Rat & Mouse Poisons)

Rodenticides are designed to kill rodents but are also highly toxic to dogs, cats, and other pets. Different types of rodenticides have different mechanisms of action and symptoms. All should be considered life-threatening emergencies.

Types of Rodenticides:

• Anticoagulant rodenticides (e.g., brodifacoum, bromadiolone):
  • Prevent blood clotting, causing internal bleeding.
  • Signs may take 3-5 days to appear.
  • Symptoms: Weakness, pale gums, bleeding (from nose, gums, in urine/stool), difficulty breathing, bruising.
• Bromethalin:
  • Causes brain swelling (cerebral oedema) and neurological damage.
  • Symptoms: Seizures, tremors, incoordination, paralysis, vomiting.
• Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol):
  • Causes calcium levels to rise to toxic levels.
  • Symptoms: Increased thirst/urination, vomiting, loss of appetite, kidney failure.
• Zinc/Aluminium phosphide:
  • Releases toxic phosphine gas in stomach.
  • Symptoms: Vomiting, abdominal pain, shock, collapse.

Emergency First Aid:

1. If you witnessed ingestion within the last 2 hours, collect the product packaging.
2. Contact your veterinarian or Animal Poison Control immediately.
3. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a professional.
4. Transport to emergency veterinary care immediately.