First aid for poisons and toxins

Overview

• Many different house and garden items can be dangerous for pets.
• It can sometimes take hours or days for your pet to show signs of poisoning/toxicity.
• Phone your vet ASAP if you think your pet may have eaten something poisonous.
• Acting fast can make a big difference to your pet - it could even save their life.

What to do if your pet comes into contact with something poisonous

Step one: Remove the item/substance

• Remove the poisonous/toxic substance.
• If they still have any in their mouth, tempt them drop it by using a treat or toy.
• If they have any of it on their fur, remove it.

Step two: Check if it’s poisonous/toxic

• Check our list of common poisons, contact the animal poisons line or call your vet.
• Never wait to see if your pet develops symptoms - symptoms can develop straight away or take hours-days.

Step three: If the item is poisonous/toxic

• Phone your vet straight away- they will tell you what to do and book you an emergency appointment if needed.
• Don’t try to make your pet sick unless your vet tells you to - sometimes it can cause more damage than good.
• If you have any packaging/remains of the item, take them or photos of them to the appointment - it might help your vet.

Published: March 2020