12/11/2025
Antifreeze Poisoning Warning ⚠️❄️
Sadly, antifreeze is highly toxic to cats and every year cats across the UK are seriously ill or die from antifreeze poisoning.
The toxic component of antifreeze is called ethylene glycol. Ethylene glycol has a sweet taste, which means animals and even children can be drawn to it. Cats do not taste ‘sweetness’ in the same way we do, but still find drinking ethylene glycol attractive. Ethylene glycol can be found after leaks of water coolant or brake fluid, after spillage of anti-freeze containing products when filling up cars, and if products are left uncapped. Uncleaned spillages can also get on cats’ paws, meaning they ingest the antifreeze as they clean themselves.
Signs of antifreeze poisoning include -
• Vomiting
•Depression/lethargy
•Incoordination and unsteadiness
•Seizures (fits)
•Difficulty breathing
If you believe your cat may have antifreeze poisoning or any of the symptoms above please call your vet practice immediately.
