- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Coma
- Seizures
- Difficulty breathing
- Kidney failure
- Death
Antifreeze is highly toxic to dogs, and even a small amount can be fatal. If you think your dog has ingested antifreeze, it's important to take them to the vet immediately.
The severity of the symptoms will depend on the amount of antifreeze ingested and the dog's individual health.
Ethylene glycol, the toxic substance in antifreeze, is metabolized into glycolic acid, oxalic acid, and other toxic metabolites. These metabolites can cause damage to the kidneys, liver, brain, and other organs.
Kidney damage is the most common complication of antifreeze ingestion in dogs. The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products out of the blood and regulating the body's fluid balance. When the kidneys are damaged, they can't do these jobs properly, which can lead to electrolyte imbalances, fluid retention, and other health problems.
Antifreeze ingestion can also cause liver damage. The liver is responsible for detoxifying harmful substances in the body. When the liver is damaged, it can't do this job properly, which can lead to a build-up of toxic substances in the blood.
Brain damage is another possible complication of antifreeze ingestion. The brain is very sensitive to damage from toxic substances. When the brain is damaged, it can lead to seizures, coma, and other neurological problems.
Death is the most serious complication of antifreeze ingestion. Antifreeze is highly toxic, and even a small amount can be fatal. If you think your dog has ingested antifreeze, it's important to take them to the vet immediately.
There is no specific antidote for antifreeze poisoning. Treatment will focus on supporting the dog's vital signs and preventing further damage to the kidneys, liver, and brain.
Treatment may include:
- Intravenous fluids
- Electrolyte therapy
- Blood transfusions
- Oxygen therapy
- Dialysis
- Liver transplant
The prognosis for dogs who have ingested antifreeze is guarded. The sooner treatment is started, the better the chances of survival.