Antifreeze poisoning in cats

As summer quickly approaches we will see temperatures rise higher than most parts of the country can only imagine. The temperature takes its toll on many facets of our life - including our vehicles. Between the extremely high air temperatures and the additional load put on our engines because the air conditioner is on, it is easy to understand that our cars can overheat. When cars overheat added pressure is produced in the cooling system and any weakened part is likely to fail or at least release fluid (antifreeze) to reduce the stress. The antifreeze leaving your sealed cooling system becomes a major health hazard for your pets. Ethylene glycol, the main ingredient in almost all major antifreeze brands, has an inviting aroma, and a sweet flavor. Its appealing smell and taste often tempt animals and children to drink the highly poisonous substance. "A large number of animals that ingest antifreeze do not recover," said Stephanie Shain, director of outreach for the Companion Animals section of The Humane Society of the United States. To lower the risk to animals and children, consumers can switch to a brand of antifreeze containing propylene glycol, a chemical ingredient that is less toxic than ethylene glycol. In addition to being safer, propylene glycol has a bitter taste that makes it less attractive to our pets. Although it's safer than ethylene glycol antifreeze, propylene glycol antifreeze is still toxic. To reduce the risk of poisoning, all brands should be handled as a highly poisonous substance. Even if you take all suggested actions to protect your loving companion, there's still a potentially lingering threat - your friends and neighbors. Most cars on the street contain this poisonous, but tasty, substance. Be overly conscious not to allow your pet to wander unattended near driveways, roads, garages or other places where they could come in contact with someone elses spillage.How To Detect Antifreeze Poisoning For pets exposed to antifreeze, the first few hours are critical. Animals who receive immediate veterinary care can recover successfully - but the longer they remain untreated the less likely they will survive. Antifreeze poisoning occurs in two phases. In the first phase, the animal typically appears lethargic, disoriented, uncoordinated and groggy. Symptoms usually appear 30 minutes to one hour after ingestion and can last for several hours. The second phase, which can last up to three days, is characterized by symptoms such as vomiting, oral and gastric ulcers, kidney failure, coma and death. Thousands of pets have suffered this deadly fate, prompting several states, and the federal government, to consider legislation that could drastically lower the incidents of antifreeze poisoning in both humans and animals. Normally, I would suggest calling the HSUS Poison Control Center for advise, but after I consulted with their doctor on staff it was advised to immediately bring your pet to a veterinarian or an emergency veterinary clinic because every minute could mean the difference between life and death.

Credit source: Animal Foundation April 2009 Newsletter