Rat Bait Poisoning
Rat bait poisoning is one of the most common forms of poisoning in pets.
Overview
Rat bait poisoning can occur if a pet has directly ingested rat poison (primary) or has ingested a rodent that may have consumed the poison (secondary). Rat bait can come in various colours (blue, green, red, tan) and formulations (blocks, pellets, granules). Unfortunately, the poison cannot be identified by colour or formula.
There are three main forms of poison used in rat bait, each affecting pets in different ways.
| Poison | Description | Symptoms | Treatment |
|
Long-acting anticoagulants Brodifacoum Bromadiolone Diphacinone Difethialone Chlorophacinone |
These poisons generally take 3-7 days before clinical signs are observed, as vitamin K-dependent clotting factors are depleted. | Initial signs are vague, such as lethargy, exercise intolerance, and anorexia, followed by weakness, bleeding, breathing problems, bruising, lameness, seizures, and potentially death. |
Vitamin K1 is the antidote. Treatment requires induced vomiting by a veterinary professional if within 4 hours of ingestion, blood testing 48-72 hours after ingestion, and Vitamin K1 treatment. In severe cases, whole blood transfusion, fresh plasma, or fresh frozen plasma may be required. |
| Bromethalin | A neurotoxin (not an anticoagulant) with a lethal dose of 2.5mg/kg. |
Signs of agitation, abnormal behaviour, depression, hindlimb paresis, tremors, and seizures can occur within 2-24 hours of ingestion. Signs may last up to 12 hours, with the possibility of permanent impairment, and can continue to occur 24-86 hours after exposure. |
There is no antidote. Treatment includes induced vomiting by a veterinary professional, activated charcoal (without a cathartic) every 6 hours for the first 24 hours, plus medication to decrease any swelling in the brain. |
| Cholecalciferol | Activated vitamin D3. | It can cause kidney failure, heart abnormalities, hypertension, anorexia, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Clinical signs develop 18-36 hours after ingestion. |
There is no antidote. Treatment may include induced vomiting by a veterinary professional, fluid therapy, and blood tests to monitor blood calcium, phosphorus levels, and kidney function. Regular blood monitoring may be required for 2-6 weeks after poisoning. |
The most common form of poison is anticoagulants, which prevent blood clotting.
If You Suspect Poisoning...
Call your veterinary team immediately.
Bringing in the rat bait packaging can be extremely helpful to your veterinary team if you suspect ingestion. Details such as the registration number, active ingredient, concentration, and amount are very useful.
Your veterinary team will be able to run a blood test to determine if your pet's blood clotting ability has been compromised by an anticoagulant poison. They will also be able to provide your pet with medication to replenish any depleted Vitamin K.
Important Reminders
Always keep rat bait and other poisons out of reach of pets. If you suspect your pet has ingested rat bait, do not wait for symptoms to appear; seek veterinary assistance immediately.