乙二醇（防凍劑）中毒
防凍劑對寵物極度有毒。了解為何這種甜味化學品如此危險及應急措施。
Ethylene glycol, the main ingredient in most antifreeze products, is one of the most dangerous poisons for pets. It tastes sweet, which attracts animals, but even a teaspoon can be fatal to a cat, and a few tablespoons can kill a dog. It causes rapid kidney failure.
- Ethylene glycol is found in antifreeze, de-icers, and some hydraulic fluids
- It tastes sweet, making it appealing to pets
- A teaspoon is fatal for a cat; a tablespoon can kill a small dog
- It causes fatal kidney failure within 24-48 hours
- Treatment must begin within 8 hours to be effective
- Look for 'pet-safe' antifreeze made with propylene glycol
How It Kills
Ethylene glycol itself isn't highly toxic, but as the liver metabolizes it, it produces crystals that lodge in the kidneys, destroying the kidney tubules. This leads to acute kidney failure. Signs in the first 12 hours look like drunkenness (wobbling, vomiting), followed by a deceptive improvement before rapid organ failure.
Signs of Poisoning
Stage 1 (30 mins - 12 hours): wobbling, depression, vomiting, excessive thirst/urination, appearing 'drunk'. Stage 2 (12-24 hours): rapid breathing, heart rate, but the pet seems better. Stage 3 (24-72 hours): severe kidney failure, no urination, vomiting, collapse, coma, and death.
Emergency Treatment
Time is critical. If ingestion was within 30 minutes, vomiting may be induced. The antidote (fomepizole or ethanol) must be given within 8 hours of ingestion to prevent the liver from making the toxic byproducts. Once kidney failure starts, the antidote is useless, and dialysis is the only option.
Prevention
Clean up antifreeze spills immediately. Store containers securely. Switch to propylene glycol-based antifreeze (though still not ideal, it's much less toxic). Check your garage floor for leaks.
- You saw your pet drink antifreeze
- Your pet is staggering or vomiting sweet-smelling liquid
- Your pet is suddenly extremely thirsty
- You find a spill in the garage
- Your pet seems drunk for no reason
- Suspected poisoning — do not wait for symptoms
Antifreeze poisoning is a true 24/7 emergency. RVC has the antidote (fomepizole) and intensive care units to support the kidneys. Do not wait — call +853 6677 6611 immediately if you suspect exposure.
+853 6677 6611