Rodenticides, also called rat or mouse baits, are used to control rodent populations yet pose a significant risk to pets. These toxic substances can lead to severe health issues or even death if ingested. Our Omega Veterinary Group team explores various rodenticides, pets’ poisoning signs, how to protect your pet from rat and mouse baits, and veterinary care your pet needs if poisoned.

Rodenticides types and how each affects pets

Rat or mouse baits are designed to control rodent populations in both urban and rural areas. Unfortunately, these poisons also cause thousands of other animal deaths, including those of livestock and pets. Standard rat baits include:

  • Anticoagulant rodenticides — These baits inhibit vitamin K, a vital blood clotting component, leading to uncontrolled bleeding. Warfarin, brodifacoum, and bromadiolone are the ingredients used. Pets’ anticoagulant poisoning signs include lethargy, pale gums, bruising, nosebleeds, and blood in urine or feces.
  • Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) rodenticides — Cholecalciferol products cause high calcium levels, leading to kidney failure. Pets’ poisoning signs include increased thirst and urination, vomiting, appetite loss, and weakness.
  • Bromethalin — These products disrupt nerve function by affecting sodium channels, leading to cerebral edema and increased pressure within a pet’s skull. Pets’ poisoning bromethalin poisoning signs include muscle tremors, seizures, incoordination, and paralysis.
  • Zinc phosphide — Zinc phosphide reacts with stomach acid to produce toxic phosphine gas, which affects cellular respiration. Pets’ zinc phosphide poisoning signs include vomiting, sometimes having a garlic odor, difficulty breathing, and seizures.

Rodenticide poisoning signs in pets

Rodenticide poisoning signs in cats and dogs can vary depending on the poison they ingest and the amount. Rat bait toxicity signs include:

  • Bleeding gums
  • Nosebleeds
  • Bloody vomit or stools
  • Lethargy
  • Excessive thirst and urination
  • Vomiting
  • Muscle weakness
  • Tremors
  • Seizures
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Coma

Diagnosis and treatment of rat bait poisoning in pets

If your pet ingests rat bait, they need immediate veterinary emergency care. Our Omega Veterinary Group team diagnoses and treats rat bait poisoning by assessing a history of possible exposure to rat poison and running blood tests to check a pet’s clotting factors. Rodenticide poisoning treatment varies depending on the bait ingested but typically can include: 

  • Inducing vomiting — Inducing vomiting in the affected pet may help if ingestion has occurred recently.
  • Activated charcoal — This product absorbs toxins in the pet’s stomach.
  • Specific antidotes — Our Omega Veterinary Group veterinarian prescribes antidotes to reverse the toxin’s effects . For example, vitamin K1 is administered for anticoagulant rodenticide poisoning.
  • Supportive care — Intravenous (IV) fluids, blood transfusions, and hospitalization are all common supportive treatments for pets with rodenticide poisoning. 

Rat bait poisoning prevention for pets

Preventing rat bait poisoning in pets involves several key strategies:

  • Secure storage — Ideally, you should use nontoxic rodent control. If you need to use rat bait, store these products in safe, pet-proof containers that are always out of your pet’s reach. Remember, all animals, including birds, wildlife, and outdoor cats, have a high poisoning risk when these products are left outdoors.
  • Careful placement — If using rat bait, place it in areas inaccessible to pets, such as bait stations designed to prevent access by animals other than rodents.
  • Use pet-safe alternatives — Opt for nontoxic or pet-safe pest control methods such as traps or natural deterrents.
  • Supervision — Monitor pets when they are outside, especially in areas where rat bait might be used.
  • Educate household members — Ensure that everyone in the household is aware of rat bait’s dangers to pets and knows where these products are stored and used. Additionally, discuss rodenticide use with neighbors so you are aware of the areas where rat bait may be found.
  • Quick response — Remain vigilant for poisoning signs and seek immediate veterinary care with our team if exposure is suspected.

Rodenticide toxicity is a severe threat to pets, but you can prevent a potential tragedy by taking the proper precautions. Awareness of rodenticide types, poisoning signs, and how to respond can save your furry friend’s life. Always contact our Omega Veterinary Group team immediately if you suspect your pet has ingested rat bait, as timely intervention is crucial for recovery.