Instructions
The signs of acute renal (kidney) failure caused by poisoned food are vague. They include loss of appetite, vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, change in urination, and thirst. If you see any one of these signs, contact your vet immediately.
Remember that loss of appetite and weight loss may be difficult to gauge and these symptoms may not be apparent until it is too late.
Be aware of your pet's energy level. If your dog or cat is not playing as much, doesn't meet you at the door, sleeps longer than normal and doesn't come when you call, these maybe signs that something is wrong.
You know what is and what is not normal for your cat and dog better than anyone else. Pay attention to your pet's behavior so when something changes, you can detect the change.
Kidney failure can be successfully treated if caught quickly. So, if you're at all worried, act immediately.
Checking to see if everything is right with your pet is a standard procedure. A vet will do a simple blood and urine test to determine whether the animal's kidneys are functioning properly.
If your pet gets sick report the incident to the Food and Drug Administration. A list of Consumer Complaint Coordinators can be found on the FDA Web site (a link is provided in the Resources box).
How to Tell if a Dog or Cat has Eaten Poisoned Food
Cat and dog lovers around the country are worried sick every time there are reports of poisoned pet food. The Food and Drug Administration will always demand a recall of contaminated food, but it may still turn up in your home. Here's how to know if your pet has been poisoned by tainted food.