All emergencies
Critical🐶

My dog ate rodenticide

Most rat poisons are anticoagulants: they cause invisible internal bleeding for several days.

Visible symptoms only 2–5 days later. Too late to wait.
Danger
Critical
Timing
Visible symptoms only 2–5 days later. Too late to wait.
Severity
Vet advice required

Symptoms to watch

  • Bleeding (gums, nose, stool)
  • Spontaneous bruising
  • Weakness
  • Coughing blood

Do immediately

  1. 1Rush to emergency immediately, even without symptoms.
  2. 2Bring the product packaging if possible.

Absolutely avoid

  • Do not wait until you see bleeding.

When to call the vet

Life-threatening emergency; an antidote (vitamin K1) exists.

FAQ

Should I wait for symptoms?

No. In pet emergencies, symptoms can be delayed: call a vet as soon as exposure or doubt occurs.

Can I give a home remedy?

Avoid home remedies without veterinary advice: some worsen poisoning, pain or aspiration risk.

Prevention tips

  • Keep medicines, toxins and small objects in closed cabinets.
  • Watch for changes in appetite, stool, breathing or behaviour.
  • Prepare a card with weight, history and vet contact for your pet.

Other emergencies to know

This content is educational and does not replace a veterinary consultation.