Antifreeze Poisoning

Veterinary hospitals are presented with a number of antifreeze poisonings every year. The commercially available forms of antifreeze contain 95% ethylene glycol (EG). Most automobiles utilize a 50% dilution of EG in their engines. In either strength EG is a sweet tasting substance that your pets will willingly drink.

Once consumed, EG is rapidly absorbed from the gastro-intestinal tract and reaches peak blood levels in 2 to 3 hours. EG itself is mildly toxic but becomes transformed to deadly metabolites by the liver.

Early signs of toxicity are apparent in 1/2 to 8 hours and are primarily vomiting, depression, and staggering. In 8 to 24 hours, the signs progress to loss of appetite, worsening depression, rapid heart rate, and labored breathing. In 24 to 72 hours kidney failure, coma and death may ensue.

Many times EG poisoning cases are not presented to our clinic until serious or lethal complications have occurred. Therefore, it is extremely important to prevent exposure of your pet to this deadly but sweet tasting poison.

To Make an Appt.

If you believe your pet may have gotten into antifreeze call the hospital right away at

(907) 688-9303.