Click here to learn more. Most antifreeze solutions contain high
levels of ethylene glycol, an ingredient that, once metabolized,
is extremely toxic to dogs and cats. Pets are often attracted to
the liquid because of its sweet taste. Even small amounts can be
lethal to animals. A cat that walks through spilled antifreeze
and then licks its paws may ingest enough to be fatal. As little
as 2.5 tablespoons of antifreeze could kill a 20-pound dog. Once
ingested, ethylene glycol is quickly broken down in the liver to
other substances that can lead to kidney failure and death
within 12 hours to a few days. That’s why antifreeze ingestion
is a medical emergency. If you suspect that your pet has
consumed antifreeze, contact your veterinarian immediately. The
signs of antifreeze poisoning vary, depending on the amount of
antifreeze the pet drank and length of time since ingestion.
Initially, pets may stagger or walk like they are drunk. Other
signs include: Antifreeze poisoning is generally diagnosed based
on the resu