Pet Poisoning Treatment in Newfoundland

If your dog or cat has swallowed, inhaled, or come into contact with a potentially toxic substance, contact a veterinarian immediately.

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What Is Toxic to Dogs and Cats?

Many everyday foods, medications, plants, and household products can be harmful to pets. Contact a veterinary team if your pet may have been exposed to:

• Chocolate, especially dark or baking chocolate
• Grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, or products containing xylitol
• Human medications, vitamins, or supplements
• Another pet’s medication or an incorrect medication dose
• Cannabis or nicotine products
• Rodent poison, pesticides, or insecticides
• Antifreeze or automotive fluids
• Household cleaners and chemicals
• Toxic plants, including lilies for cats
• Essential oils
• Fertilizers or lawn and garden products
• Mouldy food, compost, or garbage
• An unknown substance

This is not a complete list. A product that seems harmless to people may still be dangerous to a dog or cat.

What to Do if Your Pet May Have Been Poisoned

If you suspect pet poisoning:

1. Remove your pet from the substance if you can do so safely.
2. Prevent further exposure by moving the product out of reach.
3. Contact a veterinarian immediately, even if your pet appears normal.
4. Bring the packaging, label, plant, or medication container with you when possible.
5. Estimate how much your pet may have ingested and when the exposure occurred.
6. Do not induce vomiting or give food, milk, medication, or home remedies unless a veterinary professional specifically instructs you to do so.

Inducing vomiting is not safe after every type of poisoning and may cause additional harm in some cases.

Signs of Poisoning in Dogs and Cats

Symptoms vary depending on the substance, amount, route of exposure, and your pet’s size and health. Possible signs include:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Excessive drooling
• Loss of appetite
• Weakness, lethargy, or collapse
• Shaking, tremors, or seizures
• Restlessness or unusual behaviour
• Difficulty walking or loss of coordination
• Rapid, slow, or irregular heartbeat
• Pale, blue, or yellow gums
• Difficulty breathing
• Abdominal pain
• Increased thirst or urination
• Bruising or unexplained bleeding
• Changes in pupil size
• Skin irritation, redness, or burns

Some toxins cause delayed symptoms. Do not assume your pet is safe because they are not showing signs immediately.

Urgent Assessment for Suspected Pet Poisoning

When you contact or arrive at our clinic, provide as much information as possible about the exposure. Our veterinary team may ask:

• What substance or product was involved
• Approximately how much your pet encountered
• When the exposure occurred
• Whether it was swallowed, inhaled, or contacted the skin or eyes
• Your pet’s weight, age, and medical history
• Whether symptoms have started
• Whether you have already given your pet anything

Clear information helps the veterinarian evaluate the potential risk and determine the appropriate next steps.

Diagnostic Testing for Toxic Exposure

Depending on the substance and your pet’s condition, the veterinarian may recommend diagnostic testing to evaluate how the exposure is affecting them.

Testing may include:

• Bloodwork
• Urinalysis
• Blood glucose testing
• Electrolyte evaluation
• Assessment of liver or kidney function
• Clotting tests
• Diagnostic imaging
• Heart-rate and rhythm monitoring

Not every toxin can be confirmed through a laboratory test. Diagnosis and treatment may be based on the exposure history, symptoms, physical examination, and available test results.

Treatment for Pet Poisoning

Treatment depends on the toxin, the amount involved, how recently the exposure occurred, and your pet’s symptoms. Care may include:

• Decontamination to limit further absorption
• Medically supervised induction of vomiting when safe and appropriate
• Activated charcoal
• Intravenous fluids
• An antidote when one is available
• Medication to control vomiting, seizures, pain, or other symptoms
• Support for breathing, circulation, liver, or kidney function
• Monitoring for complications
• Referral for hospitalization or intensive care

There is no single treatment for every poisoning. The veterinarian will explain the recommended approach based on your pet’s specific exposure and condition.

Compassionate Support for You and Your Pet

We know how frightening pet poisoning can be. Our team provides not only expert medical care but also clear, calm guidance during every step of the process. We explain your pet’s condition, treatment options, expected outcomes, and what to watch for after you go home, helping you feel assured that your pet is receiving the best possible care.