10/13/2026
Fall Poison Prevention: Rodenticides & Antifreeze
As temperatures begin to drop, pets may encounter some seasonal hazards that aren't as common during the warmer months. Two important ones to be aware of are rodenticides (mouse and rat bait) and antifreeze. Both can cause life-threatening poisoning, and in many cases, pets may not show serious symptoms until significant damage has already occurred.
Rodenticide Safety
As the weather gets colder, rodents often start looking for warmer places to shelter. This can lead homeowners to use mouse and rat baits around their homes, garages, barns, sheds, and other buildings. Unfortunately, these products can be extremely dangerous to pets.
Different types of rodenticides can cause different problems, including:
🩸 Internal bleeding – Some anticoagulant rodenticides interfere with the body's ability to clot blood. Signs may not appear immediately and can include weakness, pale gums, bruising, bloody urine or stool, coughing, or difficulty breathing.
🧠 Neurologic problems – Certain rodenticides can cause tremors, seizures, weakness, or other nervous system abnormalities.
🫘 Kidney damage – Some products can cause severe kidney injury.
The appearance of the bait does not reliably tell you what type of rodenticide it is, so keep the original packaging if possible. Also remember that pets can potentially be exposed by eating a poisoned rodent.
Antifreeze Safety
Antifreeze is another serious fall and winter hazard. Many antifreeze products contain ethylene glycol, which is highly toxic to dogs and cats. Unfortunately, it can have a sweet taste that may attract animals. Even a relatively small amount can cause severe poisoning.
Early signs may include:
• Acting unusually tired or weak
• Vomiting
• Stumbling or appearing intoxicated
• Increased thirst
• Increased urination
As poisoning progresses, severe kidney damage and kidney failure can occur. Once kidney damage has developed, treatment becomes much more difficult. Early veterinary treatment is critical.
How Can You Protect Your Pet?
✔️ Store rodenticides and antifreeze securely where pets cannot reach them.
✔️ Clean up antifreeze spills immediately and thoroughly.
✔️ Check your garage, driveway, and parking areas for automotive fluid leaks.
✔️ Keep pets away from areas where rodent bait has been placed.
✔️ Never assume a small amount is harmless.
✔️ Keep the product packaging if you suspect your pet has been exposed. Knowing exactly what product was involved can help your veterinarian determine the appropriate treatment.
What If Your Pet Is Exposed? Don't wait for symptoms to appear! If you know or suspect that your pet has eaten rodenticide, antifreeze, or a potentially poisoned rodent, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary hospital immediately. Do not attempt to make your pet vomit unless a veterinary professional specifically instructs you to do so. Some poisonings require very specific treatment, and delaying care can make a significant difference.
A little preparation can go a long way toward keeping your pets safe this fall!
