Rat Poisoning
Rodenticides, commonly referred to as “rat poison” in everyday language, represent a frequent source of intoxication in pets. Their high toxicity is specifically designed to kill rodents quickly or with a delay. Unfortunately, these substances are not selective, so dogs and cats are also at risk if ingested orally. Dogs, with their pronounced eating behavior and tendency to eat unusual things, are particularly often affected. The variety of active ingredients used requires a differentiated approach: In addition to anticoagulants, other poison groups such as cholecalciferol (vitamin D3), bromethalin, and zinc phosphide are increasingly being used – each with very different mechanisms of action and therapy approaches.
The most important facts at a glance
Rodenticide intoxications in dogs and cats represent a common and serious emergency in small animal practice. AnticoagulantsAnticoagulants are medications that slow down or inhibit blood coagulation. They are used to prevent the formation of blood clots and are used in dogs and cats with certain heart conditions or coagulation disorders., cholecalciferol, bromethalin, and zinc phosphide differ greatly in their mechanism of action, requiring thorough diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and targeted therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions.. Early veterinary intervention significantly improves survival chances. PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. through proper application and safe storage is essential.
Causes, development and progression
Various substances are used to control rats and mice.
Most of these are substances that severely damage blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound. by inhibiting the effect of vitaminVitamins are organic compounds that are necessary in small amounts for the normal growth, development, and physiological function of the body. Vitamins must mostly be obtained through food, as the body cannot produce them or not in sufficient quantities. K in conjunction with various coagulation factorsCoagulation factors are proteins in the blood that are essential for blood coagulation. They work together to stop Bleeding by forming a blood clot. Disorders or deficiencies in coagulation factors can lead to bleeding problems in dogs and cats. in the liver.
The blockage in the blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound. system leads to multipleMultiple means manifold or repeated and is used to describe conditions or events that occur in multiple instances or at different locations. In veterinary medicine, this may indicate multiple lesions, tumors, or other pathological changes. hemorrhages (Bleeding in the body) after the remaining coagulation factorsCoagulation factors are proteins in the blood that are essential for blood coagulation. They work together to stop Bleeding by forming a blood clot. Disorders or deficiencies in coagulation factors can lead to bleeding problems in dogs and cats. are consumed. The result is exsanguination of the rodents.
Depending on the amount ingested, the effect can be delayed by 2–5 days due to the remaining coagulation factorsCoagulation factors are proteins in the blood that are essential for blood coagulation. They work together to stop Bleeding by forming a blood clot. Disorders or deficiencies in coagulation factors can lead to bleeding problems in dogs and cats. and can last for 2–4 weeks.
These substances are called long-acting anticoagulantsAnticoagulants are medications that slow down or inhibit blood coagulation. They are used to prevent the formation of blood clots and are used in dogs and cats with certain heart conditions or coagulation disorders. (LWA).
Since a specific coagulationCoagulation is the process of blood coagulation, in which liquid blood is transformed into a solid clot. This process is crucial for stopping Bleeding and promoting wound healing. factor is known to be consumed first (half-life 4–6 h), its decrease can be used very effectively for early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. in cases of suspected rat poison intoxication, even if no other symptoms are present yet.
Rodenticide poisonings typically result from:
- Uncontrolled access to poison baits, e.g., in basements, gardens, garages, or stables
- IngestionIngestion refers to the intake of substances through the mouth and their delivery to the digestive tract. In dogs and cats, the ingestion of toxic substances, foreign objects, or incompatible foods can lead to health problems. of poisoned rodents (secondary poisoning)
- Incorrect or improper storage of rat poison
- AccidentalAccidental means random or unintentional and refers to events or exposures that are not deliberate, such as the accidental swallowing of foreign objects or toxins by dogs and cats. administration by uninformed individuals
- Malicious poisoning by third parties (rare, but relevant under animal welfare law)
Puppies, young animals, and curious dogs are particularly at risk. Cats are less frequently affected as they are less interested in baits, but they can be indirectly endangered through their prey (rats, mice).
Mechanism of action
Products used for rat control inhibit vitaminVitamins are organic compounds that are necessary in small amounts for the normal growth, development, and physiological function of the body. Vitamins must mostly be obtained through food, as the body cannot produce them or not in sufficient quantities. K synthesis in the liver, causing its levels in the organism to drop.
Some coagulation factorsCoagulation factors are proteins in the blood that are essential for blood coagulation. They work together to stop Bleeding by forming a blood clot. Disorders or deficiencies in coagulation factors can lead to bleeding problems in dogs and cats. require vitaminVitamins are organic compounds that are necessary in small amounts for the normal growth, development, and physiological function of the body. Vitamins must mostly be obtained through food, as the body cannot produce them or not in sufficient quantities. K for their synthesis. A deficiencyDeficiency means a lack or absence of a necessary substance required for normal bodily functions or health, such as vitamins, minerals, or hormones. in vitamin K therefore also results in a deficiencyDeficiency means a lack or absence of a necessary substance required for normal bodily functions or health, such as vitamins, minerals, or hormones. of these coagulation factorsCoagulation factors are proteins in the blood that are essential for blood coagulation. They work together to stop Bleeding by forming a blood clot. Disorders or deficiencies in coagulation factors can lead to bleeding problems in dogs and cats..
The speed of onset and duration of action of the poisons depend on the amount ingested.
The duration of action can extend over weeks.
The Toxicological Effects Vary Greatly Depending on the Active Ingredient:
Anticoagulants (1st and 2nd Generation)
Substances: Warfarin, Brodifacoum, Difenacoum, Bromadiolone, Chlorophacinone etc.
Mechanism of Action:
- Inhibition of vitaminVitamins are organic compounds that are necessary in small amounts for the normal growth, development, and physiological function of the body. Vitamins must mostly be obtained through food, as the body cannot produce them or not in sufficient quantities. K1 epoxide reductase in the liver
- Impairment of the activation of coagulation factorsCoagulation factors are proteins in the blood that are essential for blood coagulation. They work together to stop Bleeding by forming a blood clot. Disorders or deficiencies in coagulation factors can lead to bleeding problems in dogs and cats. II, VII, IX, and X
- Effective coagulationCoagulation is the process of blood coagulation, in which liquid blood is transformed into a solid clot. This process is crucial for stopping Bleeding and promoting wound healing. is no longer possible → spontaneous Bleeding
Latency periodThe latency period is the time between exposure to a disease-causing factor and the appearance of the first symptoms of the disease. At this stage, the disease is present but not yet manifest. of 2 to 5 days, as stored coagulation factorsCoagulation factors are proteins in the blood that are essential for blood coagulation. They work together to stop Bleeding by forming a blood clot. Disorders or deficiencies in coagulation factors can lead to bleeding problems in dogs and cats. are consumed first
Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3)
Mechanism of Action:
- Increases calciumCalcium is a mineral that is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in blood coagulation, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction. and phosphate absorptionAbsorption refers to the uptake of substances by living cells or tissues. In the context of veterinary medicine, it often refers to the absorption of nutrients, drugs, or toxins from the digestive tract into the bloodstream. in the intestineThe intestine is the medical term for the gut, including the small intestine (intestinum tenue) and the large intestine (intestinum crassum). It plays a central role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients.
- Mobilizes calciumCalcium is a mineral that is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in blood coagulation, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction. from the bone
- Leads to hypercalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, renal failure, soft tissue calcification
Bromethalin
Mechanism of Action:
- Inhibits oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondriaMitochondria are cell organelles that serve as the "power plants" of the cell because they produce most of the energy in the form of ATP. They play an essential role in energy metabolism and in the regulation of cell death.
- Energy loss (ATP↓) in the CNSCNS stands for the central nervous system, which consists of the brain and the spinal cord. It is responsible for processing information and controls many functions of the body.
- Intracellular edemaAn edema is a buildup of fluid in the body's tissues, leading to Swelling. Edema can be localized or generalized and is often a sign of an underlying condition. due to sodiumSodium is a vital electrolyte that plays a key role in regulating water balance, blood pressure, and nerve and muscle activity. Unbalanced sodium levels can lead to various health problems in dogs and cats. and water retention → cerebral edemaAn edema is a buildup of fluid in the body's tissues, leading to Swelling. Edema can be localized or generalized and is often a sign of an underlying condition., neurological deficits
Zinc Phosphide
Mechanism of Action:
- In the stomach, under the influence of stomach acid, phosphine gas is produced
- Cell poison with strong cytotoxic effect on heart, liver, lungs, CNSCNS stands for the central nervous system, which consists of the brain and the spinal cord. It is responsible for processing information and controls many functions of the body.
Rapid onset of action (within 30–60 minutes)
Symptoms of intoxication
For the substances currently used for rat control, the effect is delayed.
When the first symptoms appear, the ingestion of the poison occurred 3 to 7 days prior.
The symptoms are initially non-specific, such as:
- ApathyApathy refers to a state of indifference and reduced interest or lack of emotional involvement in activities or events that would normally arouse interest.
- Loss of appetite
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems.
- unsteady gait
Later, more or less pronounced
- internal and external Bleeding
- pale mucous membranes with blood spots (petechiaePetechiae are small, pinpoint skin hemorrhages caused by blood leaking from the capillaries. They can indicate a variety of conditions, including infections, allergic reactions, and blood clotting disorders.)
- Anämie
- nosebleeds
- blood in urine
- Bleeding from wounds, prolonged
- bloody Cough
- Bleeding in joints, associated with Swelling
- AbdominalThe term "abdominal" refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. distension due to blood accumulation
- ParalysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system.
- Convulsions
Bleeding can occur in all organs.
Sudden death, without prior clinical signs, is also possible.
Further symptoms depend on the active ingredient and the amount ingested:
Anticoagulants
- Lethargy, pale mucous membranes
- Hemorrhages (nosebleeds, hematomas, hematochezia, hematuria)
- DyspneaDyspnea, also known as shortness of breath, is the subjective feeling of breathlessness or difficulty breathing. It can be a symptom of a variety of conditions, including heart disease, lung disease, and anemia. (Bleeding in the thoracic area)
- Hypovolemic shock
Cholecalciferol
- PolyuriaPolyuria refers to a significantly increased urine output. It can be a symptom of various diseases, including diabetes mellitus, kidney disease, and hormonal disorders., polydipsiaPolydipsia refers to an increased feeling of thirst and increased fluid intake. It can be a symptom of various diseases, including diabetes mellitus and kidney disease.
- Inappetence, Vomiting, apathyApathy refers to a state of indifference and reduced interest or lack of emotional involvement in activities or events that would normally arouse interest.
- Muscle tremors, arrhythmias
- Signs of acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. renal failure
Bromethalin
- Ataxia, tremor
- Hyperreflexia, Convulsions
- Blindness, ParalysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system., comaA coma is a deep state of unconsciousness where an individual cannot be awakened and does not respond to stimuli. In dogs and cats, it can be caused by severe illnesses, poisoning, or neurological problems.
Zinc Phosphide
- Nausea, salivation, Vomiting with putrid odor (phosphine)
- DyspneaDyspnea, also known as shortness of breath, is the subjective feeling of breathlessness or difficulty breathing. It can be a symptom of a variety of conditions, including heart disease, lung disease, and anemia., circulatory shock
- Liver insufficiencyInsufficiency refers to the inadequate function or performance of an organ or system. This can include, for example, heart failure, kidney failure, or venous insufficiency., bloody DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems.
- Sudden Death
Diagnosis
Diagnostics include:
- Medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits.: Possible exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats. to rat poison? Eating rodents?
- Clinical examination: Indicative symptoms depending on the toxinA toxin is a poison produced by living cells or organisms that can be harmful to the body upon contact or ingestion. Toxins can originate from bacteria, plants, animals, or fungi.
- Laboratory tests:
- AnticoagulantsAnticoagulants are medications that slow down or inhibit blood coagulation. They are used to prevent the formation of blood clots and are used in dogs and cats with certain heart conditions or coagulation disorders.: PT (Prothrombin time), aPTT
- Cholecalciferol: Hypercalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, creatinine↑
- Zinc phosphide: Liver values↑, metabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. acidosisAcidosis is a condition in which the pH value in the body is too acidic, either due to an increase in acid or a loss of bases. In dogs and cats, acidosis can occur due to renal failure, diabetes, or other metabolic disorders.
- Special examinations:
- Detection of active ingredients in blood, liver, urine (e.g., via HPLC)
- CT/MRI for neurological symptomatologySymptomatology refers to the entirety of symptoms associated with a particular disease or condition. It describes how a disease manifests itself externally. (especially bromethalin)
Therapeutic principles
Since various products with different ingredients are used for rat control, it is very helpful for assessing an intoxication if the product name and manufacturer are known.
It is also important whether it is a ready-to-use bait, a mixed bait, or a concentrate.
Products that contain non-anticoagulant active ingredients exert their toxic effect by damaging the nervous system (e.g., bromethalin) or increasing blood calciumCalcium is a mineral that is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in blood coagulation, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction. levels, leading to renal, liver, or Heart failure (e.g., cholecalciferol). When ingested by rodents, they lead to Death within a few hours and are therefore less often a source of poisoning for wild animals.
They remain dangerous for dogs and cats, with the additional disadvantage that no antidoteAn antidote is a substance used to neutralize or reverse the harmful effects of poisoning or a drug overdose. Antidotes can be specific to certain poisons or have more general detoxifying effects. is available.
In cases of suspected ingestionIngestion refers to the intake of substances through the mouth and their delivery to the digestive tract. In dogs and cats, the ingestion of toxic substances, foreign objects, or incompatible foods can lead to health problems. of rat poison or freshly observed ingestionIngestion refers to the intake of substances through the mouth and their delivery to the digestive tract. In dogs and cats, the ingestion of toxic substances, foreign objects, or incompatible foods can lead to health problems., decontaminationDecontamination refers to the removal of toxic substances or pathogens from a living being, object, or environment to prevent or treat poisoning or infection. with gastric and intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. emptying and the administration of activated charcoalActivated charcoal is a fine-pored, highly adsorbing material commonly used in veterinary medicine to treat poisoning. It binds toxins in the gastrointestinal tract to prevent their absorption into the body. are promising.
If clinical symptoms of a coagulationCoagulation is the process of blood coagulation, in which liquid blood is transformed into a solid clot. This process is crucial for stopping Bleeding and promoting wound healing. disorder are already present or if corresponding laboratory findings from coagulationCoagulation is the process of blood coagulation, in which liquid blood is transformed into a solid clot. This process is crucial for stopping Bleeding and promoting wound healing. diagnostics exist, decontaminationDecontamination refers to the removal of toxic substances or pathogens from a living being, object, or environment to prevent or treat poisoning or infection. is no longer useful.
TherapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. consists of high-dose vitamin K1 administration (antidoteAn antidote is a substance used to neutralize or reverse the harmful effects of poisoning or a drug overdose. Antidotes can be specific to certain poisons or have more general detoxifying effects.) until the symptoms subside.
Usually, after initialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. administration of coagulation factorsCoagulation factors are proteins in the blood that are essential for blood coagulation. They work together to stop Bleeding by forming a blood clot. Disorders or deficiencies in coagulation factors can lead to bleeding problems in dogs and cats. (plasma transfusion) and intravenous vitaminVitamins are organic compounds that are necessary in small amounts for the normal growth, development, and physiological function of the body. Vitamins must mostly be obtained through food, as the body cannot produce them or not in sufficient quantities. K1 substitution, continuation of therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. with oral vitaminVitamins are organic compounds that are necessary in small amounts for the normal growth, development, and physiological function of the body. Vitamins must mostly be obtained through food, as the body cannot produce them or not in sufficient quantities. K1 administration is possible.
In severe cases, the direct administration of coagulation factorsCoagulation factors are proteins in the blood that are essential for blood coagulation. They work together to stop Bleeding by forming a blood clot. Disorders or deficiencies in coagulation factors can lead to bleeding problems in dogs and cats. (plasma transfusions) may also be necessary.
TherapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. must be long-lasting until the symptoms subside.
Mostly, after initialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. administration of coagulation factorsCoagulation factors are proteins in the blood that are essential for blood coagulation. They work together to stop Bleeding by forming a blood clot. Disorders or deficiencies in coagulation factors can lead to bleeding problems in dogs and cats. (plasmaPlasma is the liquid part of blood in which blood cells are suspended. It contains water, salts, proteins, and other substances and serves as a transport medium for nutrients, hormones, and waste products. transfusion) and intravenous vitaminVitamins are organic compounds that are necessary in small amounts for the normal growth, development, and physiological function of the body. Vitamins must mostly be obtained through food, as the body cannot produce them or not in sufficient quantities. K1 substitution, continuation of therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. with oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. vitaminVitamins are organic compounds that are necessary in small amounts for the normal growth, development, and physiological function of the body. Vitamins must mostly be obtained through food, as the body cannot produce them or not in sufficient quantities. K1 administration is necessary.
TherapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. must sometimes be maintained for weeks. A coagulationCoagulation is the process of blood coagulation, in which liquid blood is transformed into a solid clot. This process is crucial for stopping Bleeding and promoting wound healing. test is performed 48 hours after discontinuing the vitaminVitamins are organic compounds that are necessary in small amounts for the normal growth, development, and physiological function of the body. Vitamins must mostly be obtained through food, as the body cannot produce them or not in sufficient quantities. administration. If the values are still pathologicalPathological refers to anything related to diseases or their processes. Pathological changes are those that deviate from the normal structure or function and indicate a disease., vitaminVitamins are organic compounds that are necessary in small amounts for the normal growth, development, and physiological function of the body. Vitamins must mostly be obtained through food, as the body cannot produce them or not in sufficient quantities. administration is resumed.
Furthermore, therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. is symptomatic. Vital functionsVital functions are essential bodily functions necessary to sustain life. These include breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and level of consciousness. must be secured. In cases of severe Blood loss, blood transfusions are necessary, which also provide coagulation factorsCoagulation factors are proteins in the blood that are essential for blood coagulation. They work together to stop Bleeding by forming a blood clot. Disorders or deficiencies in coagulation factors can lead to bleeding problems in dogs and cats.. Antibiotic prophylaxisProphylaxis refers to preventive measures taken to avoid diseases or health problems. In veterinary medicine, this can include vaccinations, regular deworming, and other preventive treatments. is predominantly indicated.
First Measures
- Induce Vomiting if no neurological deficits are present (within 1–2 hours after ingestionIngestion refers to the intake of substances through the mouth and their delivery to the digestive tract. In dogs and cats, the ingestion of toxic substances, foreign objects, or incompatible foods can lead to health problems.)
- Administration of activated charcoalActivated charcoal is a fine-pored, highly adsorbing material commonly used in veterinary medicine to treat poisoning. It binds toxins in the gastrointestinal tract to prevent their absorption into the body., multipleMultiple means manifold or repeated and is used to describe conditions or events that occur in multiple instances or at different locations. In veterinary medicine, this may indicate multiple lesions, tumors, or other pathological changes. times for enterohepatic recirculation
- Stabilization of circulation, fluid therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions.
Specific therapies
AnticoagulantsAnticoagulants are medications that slow down or inhibit blood coagulation. They are used to prevent the formation of blood clots and are used in dogs and cats with certain heart conditions or coagulation disorders.:
- VitaminVitamins are organic compounds that are necessary in small amounts for the normal growth, development, and physiological function of the body. Vitamins must mostly be obtained through food, as the body cannot produce them or not in sufficient quantities. K1 (phytomenadione) oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. or subcutaneousSubcutaneous means "under the skin." In medicine, it refers to the administration of drugs or the placement of implants directly under the skin., for at least 3 weeks
- Fresh plasmaPlasma is the liquid part of blood in which blood cells are suspended. It contains water, salts, proteins, and other substances and serves as a transport medium for nutrients, hormones, and waste products. or whole bloodWhole blood refers to blood in its natural composition, as it exists immediately after being drawn from the body, including all blood cells and plasma. transfusion for active Bleeding
- Monitoring: PT/aPTT every 48 hours
Cholecalciferol:
- Infusion therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. with 0.9% NaCl
- Furosemide, prednisolone, possibly calcitonin to lower calciumCalcium is a mineral that is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in blood coagulation, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction.
- Gastric protectionProtection refers to safeguarding against diseases or harm. In veterinary medicine, this can include protecting animals through vaccinations, the use of parasite control products, or providing a safe environment., monitoring of kidney parameters
Bromethalin:
- No specific antidoteAn antidote is a substance used to neutralize or reverse the harmful effects of poisoning or a drug overdose. Antidotes can be specific to certain poisons or have more general detoxifying effects. therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions.
- Intensive care: AnticonvulsantsAnticonvulsants, also called antiepileptic drugs, are medications used to control or prevent seizures. They are used in dogs and cats with epilepsy or other conditions that cause seizures. (Diazepam, Phenobarbital), Mannitol
- IntracranialIntracranial refers to anything located within the skull. Intracranial conditions in dogs and cats include Tumors, infections, and cerebral edema, which can cause neurological symptoms. pressure control
Zinc phosphide:
- Gastric lavageLavage is a rinsing procedure that uses a liquid to clean a body cavity, organ, or wound. In veterinary medicine, lavage can be used, for example, for gastric lavage or to clean an infected wound. with suction
- Metoclopramide, antiemeticsAntiemetics are medications used to prevent or treat Nausea and Vomiting. In dogs and cats, they are used in various situations, including after surgery, for motion sickness, or for certain conditions that cause Nausea.
- Oxygen administration, liver and circulatory support
Prognosis & follow-up care
The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is good with timely and consistent therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions..
The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. depends on the active ingredient, the dose, the time until therapy, and the general condition:
| Active ingredient | PrognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. |
| AnticoagulantsAnticoagulants are medications that slow down or inhibit blood coagulation. They are used to prevent the formation of blood clots and are used in dogs and cats with certain heart conditions or coagulation disorders. | Good with early vitaminVitamins are organic compounds that are necessary in small amounts for the normal growth, development, and physiological function of the body. Vitamins must mostly be obtained through food, as the body cannot produce them or not in sufficient quantities. K1 therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. |
| Cholecalciferol | Guarded to poor |
| Bromethalin | Unfavorable, often fatal |
| Zinc phosphide | Very poor with late diagnosis |
Aftercare:
- Monitoring of blood count, coagulationCoagulation is the process of blood coagulation, in which liquid blood is transformed into a solid clot. This process is crucial for stopping Bleeding and promoting wound healing., electrolytesElectrolytes are minerals in the body that carry an electric charge and perform vital functions such as regulating fluid balance, acid-base balance, and nerve and muscle activity. The main electrolytes include sodium, potassium, chloride, and magnesium.
- Long-term support of liver and kidney
- Owner education to prevent further exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats.
prophylaxis
The methods of controlling rats and mice lead to a painful, slow, and agonizing Death for the rodents. The methods are inhumane.
We largely have prophylaxisProphylaxis refers to preventive measures taken to avoid diseases or health problems. In veterinary medicine, this can include vaccinations, regular deworming, and other preventive treatments. in our own hands.
- Rat poison only in bait stations, inaccessible to children and pets
- hygienic measures for rodent control
- safe waste disposal
- promote natural enemies of rats and mice
- Live traps
- Snap traps that kill the animals instantly
In addition to endangering our children and pets, the usual methods of rodent control endanger wild animals such as birds, polecats, wild cats, and foxes.
According to a study in Australia, poisoned mice and rats are the cause of 50% of owl deaths.
Research outlook
Toxicological research focuses, among other things, on:
- Development of specific antidotes for bromethalin and zinc phosphide
- Molecular markers for early detection of subclinical intoxications
- Non-toxic rodenticides to prevent secondary intoxications
- Rapid tests for veterinary practices to differentiate between toxins
- Assessment of ecotoxicology in wild animals due to rodenticide residues
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
- How quickly do symptoms appear after ingestionIngestion refers to the intake of substances through the mouth and their delivery to the digestive tract. In dogs and cats, the ingestion of toxic substances, foreign objects, or incompatible foods can lead to health problems.?
Depending on the active ingredient, between minutes (zinc phosphide) and several days (anticoagulants). - How can I tell if my pet has eaten rat poison?
Noticeable symptoms such as Bleeding, weakness, Vomiting, Seizures are warning signs. - What should be done if poisoning is suspected?
Seek immediate veterinary emergency care, bring packaging (if known). - Can activated charcoalActivated charcoal is a fine-pored, highly adsorbing material commonly used in veterinary medicine to treat poisoning. It binds toxins in the gastrointestinal tract to prevent their absorption into the body. help?
Yes, if given early, it can reduce poison absorptionAbsorption refers to the uptake of substances by living cells or tissues. In the context of veterinary medicine, it often refers to the absorption of nutrients, drugs, or toxins from the digestive tract into the bloodstream.. - How long does vitaminVitamins are organic compounds that are necessary in small amounts for the normal growth, development, and physiological function of the body. Vitamins must mostly be obtained through food, as the body cannot produce them or not in sufficient quantities. K1 treatment last?
Usually 3 to 4 weeks, depending on the active ingredient. - Are there home remedies for rat poison?
No – self-treatment can be life-threatening. - Are cats also at risk?
Yes, especially by eating poisoned rodents. - How can I protect my pet?
No freely accessible baits, control over hunting behavior, secure storage. - Are all rat poisons equally dangerous?
No, there are significant differences in toxicityToxicity is the measure of a substance's harmfulness or poisonousness. Toxicity can vary depending on the dose, route of exposure, and individual sensitivity., effects, and treatment options. - Can a single ingestionIngestion refers to the intake of substances through the mouth and their delivery to the digestive tract. In dogs and cats, the ingestion of toxic substances, foreign objects, or incompatible foods can lead to health problems. be fatal?
Yes, for certain poisons, even a small amount can be fatal.
Literature
- https://gizbonn.de/giftzentrale-bonn/archiv/gerinnungshemmendes-rattengift
- Gwaltney-Brant, S. M. (2012): Rodenticides. In: Peterson, M.E., Talcott, P.A. (eds.): Small Animal Toxicology, 3rd ed. Elsevier, pp. 612–635.
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