Section: Overview
Metaldehyde poisoning results from the ingestion of products containing the active ingredient metaldehyde, a common ingredient used in molluscicides, which are products used to kill snails and slugs. Slug and snail baits generally contain three percent metaldehyde and products are formulated as blue or green colored pellets, powder, liquid or granules. Metaldehyde poisoning is seen more commonly on the West Coast of the United States. The use of molluscicides increases the risk of exposure for pets, and a metaldehyde dosage of 190 to 240 milligrams per kilogram of body weight is lethal for 50 percent of dogs. In practice, the toxic dosage can range from 100 to 1000 milligrams per kilogram of body weight.Metaldehyde toxicity causes rapid onset of neurological symptoms that can be fatal if untreated. Signs of poisoning begin within 1 to 4 hours of exposure.
Care must be taken to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations regarding medication administration. Problems associated with medication include allergic reactions, overdose and toxicity.
A seizure (convulsion) is a series of involuntary contractions of the voluntary muscles, abnormal sensations, abnormal behaviors or some combination of these events. Seizures are symptoms – they are not...
Nicotine is a poisonous substance derived from the tobacco plant and used in medicine and as an insecticide. Pets most often become intoxicated after ingesting cigarettes or cigars.
Tremors are rhythmic, to and fro involuntary movements that persist through the waking state. True tremors stop during sleep. There are a variety of causes of tremors, depending on which part of the body...
Your use of this website constitutes acceptance of our Privacy Statement and Legal terms Pet Care Information | Pet Information | Pet Health Information
