If your pet is in immediate danger, call your vet or emergency animal hospital NOW. ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 | Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661
Rat Poison (Rodenticide) Ingestion
Rat and mouse poisons (rodenticides) are one of the most common causes of pet poisoning. There are several types, each with a different mechanism and treatment. Anticoagulant rodenticides (the most common) prevent blood from clotting, leading to internal bleeding. Symptoms may not appear for 2-5 days, making early veterinary intervention critical.
Symptoms to Watch ForWarning Signs
- Weakness and lethargy (often the first sign)
- Pale gums
- Nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in stool/urine
- Coughing or difficulty breathing (if bleeding into the lungs)
- Bruising on the skin or gums
- Swollen, painful abdomen
- Loss of appetite and vomiting
- Sudden collapse (in severe cases)
Immediate First AidAct Now
- 1Identify the product if possible — the active ingredient determines the treatment and urgency
- 2Call your vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435 immediately with product information
- 3If advised, induce vomiting (dogs only, within 2 hours of ingestion)
- 4Bring the product packaging or take a photo of the label
- 5Do not wait for symptoms — anticoagulant poisoning symptoms are delayed 2-5 days
- 6Secondary poisoning is possible if your pet eats a poisoned rodent
When to Call the Vet
- Always call immediately if you suspect any rodenticide ingestion
- Even if you are unsure whether your pet consumed the poison
- If your pet has caught and eaten a mouse or rat (risk of secondary poisoning)
- If your pet shows any unexplained bleeding or bruising
Additional Information
Common rodenticide types: Anticoagulants (warfarin, brodifacoum, bromadiolone) — treatable with vitamin K1; Bromethalin — causes brain swelling, no antidote; Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) — causes kidney failure; Zinc phosphide — releases toxic phosphine gas in the stomach. Treatment varies dramatically by type, so identification is critical.