What to Do If Your Dog Eats Rat Poison

Rat Poison Is a True Emergency

Rodenticides (rat and mouse poisons) are among the most common causes of dog poisoning. They are designed to be palatable — which means dogs actively seek them out. Different types of rat poison work differently and require different treatments, which is why bringing the packaging to the vet is critical.

Types of Rat Poison and Their Effects

1. Anticoagulant Rodenticides (Most Common)

Examples: brodifacoum, bromadiolone, warfarin. These prevent blood clotting, causing internal bleeding. Symptoms may not appear for 3–5 days after ingestion — making this particularly dangerous because owners may not realize the urgency.

Signs: lethargy, pale gums, difficulty breathing, coughing blood, bruising, bloody urine or stool, collapse.

2. Bromethalin (Neurotoxic)

Causes brain swelling. Signs appear within 24–48 hours: tremors, seizures, paralysis, coma.

3. Zinc Phosphide

Releases toxic gas when it contacts stomach acid. Causes vomiting, seizures, and cardiovascular collapse rapidly. Do not induce vomiting — the gas released is also toxic to humans.

4. Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3)

Causes dangerous calcium elevation leading to kidney failure. Signs appear 1–3 days after ingestion.

What to Do Immediately

1. Grab the packaging — the active ingredient determines treatment
2. Call immediately: ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661
3. Go to the emergency vet — do not wait for symptoms
4. Do not induce vomiting without professional guidance (especially for zinc phosphide)

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type of poison:

• Anticoagulants: Vitamin K1 therapy for weeks to months
• Bromethalin: Activated charcoal, supportive care
• Cholecalciferol: IV fluids, medications to lower calcium
• Zinc phosphide: Supportive care, do NOT induce vomiting

💊 Recommended: Activated Charcoal for Dogs and Cats — Use only under veterinary or poison control guidance for appropriate toxin types. Non-GMO powder, 3.53 oz.

🧰 Recommended: EVERLIT Pet Medic First Aid Kit (95 Pcs) — Keep one at home and one in the car.

Prevention

• Use pet-safe pest control methods
• If you must use rodenticides, place them in areas completely inaccessible to pets
• Be aware that dogs can be poisoned by eating a rodent that has ingested poison (relay toxicity)