Rodent Control and Your Pet

The “roof rat” problem plaguing the Arcadia area has been making headlines for several months. Many aspects of the problem have been raised; the diseases they transmit, ridding yards of food sources, trapping and poisoning. Rodent control can be difficult. Trapping of rodents is a slow process and may take time to control the problem. Poisoning is an easier, quicker, and more economical way to control the problem, but it has its consequences. These consequences include the possibility of our pets (both dog and cats) ingesting the poison directly or indirectly through ingestion of a dead or dying rat.

Rodenticide poisoning is a not uncommon problem seen in a veterinary hospital. Most commonly used rodenticides have similar actions and directly effect an animal’s ability to coagulate (clot) its blood. Animals that have ingested such a poison show signs of lethargy (tiredness), sneezing with bloody discharge, bloody stools, bruising, difficulty breathing, seizures, and sudden onset blindness. Signs are usually seen within 3-5 days after exposure and toxic dosages depend on the “class” of poison ingested.It is important that if owners see or are suspicious of exposure that they seek veterinary care immediately. If treated at the time of exposure animals can be made to “vomit-up” the toxin, which could lower the levels of exposure and improve prognosis. Tests can be performed that can suggest coagulation system disorders and thereby rule-in or rule-out exposure. And supportive care can be initiated to lessen the effects of the poison. The antidote (specific treatment) for rodenticide poisonings is Vitamin K. Vitamin K is available in injectable and oral forms. Treatment starts with injections and continues with oral medicine and usually lasts for up to 21 days. Re-examination by your veterinarian to ensure improvement is also required. It also should be noted that oral Vitamin K is extremely expensive.Rodenticide poisoning can be a serious problem in both dogs and cats. Those of us who live in the Arcadia area and are using poisoning as a means to control the “roof rat” problem need to be cautious and aware of the consequences of its use. Contact your veterinarian or the national animal poison control (ASPCA National Animal Poison Control Center 1-800-548-2423 - $45 charge) if you have any questions or concerns.

Ingleside Animal Hospitail s located at 4855 East Thomas Road
(48th Street & Thomas), 602-840-3446