19/11/2025
Itโs that time of year when we use screen wash and de-icers more often please read the information below ๐ถ๐ฑ๐โ๐ฆบ๐๐ฆฎ๐โโฌ
Winter Dangers - Ethylene Glycol poisoning
Ethylene Glycol is the main ingredient in antifreeze, winter screen wash and de-icers, it is a colourless, odourless and sweet tasting. While our pets don't taste sweetness as we do, they may still be tempted to drink Ethylene Glycol. In the case of spillages pets may walk through and then lick their paws or coats and consume Ethylene Glycol this way. Even the smallest amount can be fatal, and once consumed it is easily absorbed into the body and can rapidly cause severe damage to the kidneys, central nervous system and other vital organs.
Symptoms of antifreeze poisoning and timeline:
โขStage 1: Intoxication-like symptoms (30 minutes to 12 hours)
-Initial symptoms: Vomiting, lethargy, and incoordination.
-Other signs: Excessive thirst (polydipsia) and urination (polyuria).
-Pain: The back and kidney area may be painful.
โขStage 2: Apparent recovery (12 to 24 hours)
-Temporary improvement.
-Underlying damage: This is a false sense of security, as the toxins cause irreversible kidney damage.
-Increased respiratory rate.
โขStage 3: Kidney failure (36 to 72 hours)
Severe symptoms: The toxins cause severe kidney failure.
-Lack of appetite and diarrhoea
-Further signs: Drooling, halitosis, swelling or pain in the kidneys, and minimal to no urine production.
โขFinal stage: This can lead to seizures, coma, and death.
Act immediately: If you have any suspicion that your dog has ingested antifreeze, seek veterinary care immediately.
Do not wait: Do not wait for symptoms to appear, as early treatment is crucial for a better outcome.
Antidote is time-sensitive: The antidotes for antifreeze poisoning are only effective if administered soon after ingestion
Because antifreeze poisoning affects cats quickly, itโs important to take them to the vet immediately after a suspected ingestion. If you can see some antifreeze on their paws or fur, wash it off straight away to minimise re-exposure before travelling to the vet.
