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Antifreeze Poisoning
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There are many chemicals that are called "antifreeze." Of those, ethylene glycol is the most dangerous form. Its most commonly found in radiator fluid and is used as an antifreeze during the cold months and engine coolant during the warm season. Most commercial antifreeze products contain between 95-97% ethylene glycol. Ethylene glycol is toxic to animals and as little as one teaspoon of undiluted antifreeze could be deadly to an average sized cat.
Ethylene glycol causes kidney failure through the formation of crystals in the kidneys, which impedes their function. Unless an animal is treated promptly and appropriately, the animal will not survive if they ingested a toxic dose.
In most cases of ethylene glycol poisonings, vomiting is seen within the first few hours and then within 1-6 hours signs of depression, incoordination, weakness, panting, increased urination, and increased thirst occur. By 18-36 hours acute renal failure can occur.
There are tests that your veterinarian can run that can accurately diagnose an ethylene glycol poisoning. Newer tests can be ran within a few minutes.
There are two different treatments for ethylene glycol poisoning. One, called Fomepizole, is only effective for dogs. The other is intravenous use of ethanol, which is the only treatment for antifreeze poisoning in cats. In addition, the poisoned animal must be placed on intravenous fluids to help prevent kidney failure.
With aggressive and prompt treatment, an antifreeze poisoned pet can survive.
If you suspect your pet has ingested antifreeze you should seek veterinary assistance immediately. Do not hesitate.
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