Rat & Mouse Poisons (Rodenticides)

Poisoning from rodenticides (mouse and rat poisons) is one of the most common types of toxicities.  There are many different types available in a wide variety of colors (green, blue, tan, red, etc.) and formulations (pellets, bait blocks, grain-based baits, etc). Products which look similar and have similar names may contain very different types of poison. Thus, if a dog or cat ingests mouse or rat poison, accurate identification of the active ingredient is crucial as this will determine the risk of poisoning and the need for treatment.

Below are the three most common active ingredients in mouse and rat poisons:  If a dog or cat ingests one of these poisons, call your veterinarian and Pet Poison Helpline immediately!  Rapid action can often save a life and prevent the need for costly medical care.

1. LONG-ACTING ANTICOAGULANTS (LAACS):
   
   Long-acting anticoagulants (LAACs) were the most frequent type of ingredients used up until 2014 when the EPA mandated the phasing out of these ingredients. This type of poison prevents the blood from clotting, resulting in internal bleeding. When dogs or cats ingest LAACs, it typically takes several days to a week before signs of poisoning are visible. Signs of internal bleeding include lethargy, loss of stamina, coughing, difficulty breathing (due to bleeding into the lungs), weakness, nose bleeds, bruising, and pale gums. Fortunately, this specific type of rodenticide does have a prescription antidote called Vitamin K1 - treatment is usually continued for at least one month. (Over-the-counter medications or food with high vitamin K content will not be sufficient substitutes.)
   
   
2. CHOLECALCIFEROL (VITAMIN D3):
   
   This poison causes severe, acute kidney failure.  Signs of poisoning include: increased thirst and urination, weakness, lethargy, and decreased appetite. Kidney failure develops 2 to 3 days after ingestion. Often by this point, significant and permanent damage has already occurred.  This type of poisoning can be one of the most challenging to treat because there is no specific antidote.  Hospitalization, frequent laboratory monitoring and expensive therapy is often required over a period of 2 to 6 weeks for a positive outcome.  Even small amounts of this poison are extremely dangerous.  
   
   
3. BROMETHALIN:
   
   This type of mouse and rat poison causes swelling of the brain. Common signs of poisoning are: incoordination, tremors, seizures, paralysis, and eventually death. Signs can develop within 2 hours, but may be delayed as long as 36 hours.  Treatment can be successful if enacted quickly and aggressively.