![Cold weather warningAntifreeze is extremely toxic to cats and can be fatal even in small amounts. If you suspect your ca...](https://img4.voofla.com/388/665/1149097343886651.jpg)
05/02/2025
Cold weather warning
Antifreeze is extremely toxic to cats and can be fatal even in small amounts. If you suspect your cat has consumed antifreeze, you should seek veterinary advice immediately.
Symptoms
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Depression
- Coma
- Increased breathing and heart rate
Stages of poisoning
Stage 1 - Hypothermia
Stage 2 - Dehydration, elevated breathing and heart rate
Stage 3 - Irreversible, kidney failure, progressive depression, lethargy, lack of appetite, vomiting, seizures, coma and death
How it happens
- Cats are attracted to the smell and the taste of antifreeze
- Cats can ingest antifreeze by licking their paws after walking through a puddle
- Ethylene glycol, the chemical in antifreeze, is rapidly absorbed into the body and damages the kidneys, nervous system, and other vital organs.
What to do
Contact your vet immediately if you see your cat drinking antifreeze or suspect it had access to antifreeze
- Do not wait until visible symptoms appear to take your cat the your vet