Emergency? Call now - do not wait for symptoms.
Is Rat poison / Rodenticide toxic to dogs or cats?
Category: Household | Last reviewed: April 2026
Quick verdict
Dogs
EMERGENCYCats
EMERGENCYRat poison / Rodenticide and dogs
Different rodenticide types have very different mechanisms and time courses. Anticoagulant rodenticides (most common UK slug pellets - metaldehyde or methiocarb) cause different symptoms from anticoagulants. Always bring the product packaging. Even if no symptoms are showing, call for guidance - delayed onset is the norm.
Onset
Varies: 3-5 days for anticoagulants; 2-4 hours for bromethalin; 18-36 hours for cholecalciferol
Symptoms
- - varies by type: internal bleeding (anticoagulants), seizures (bromethalin), excessive thirst (cholecalciferol), vomiting/seizures (metaldehyde/slug bait)
What to do now
Emergency. Call ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) immediately with the exact product name if possible. Rush to an emergency vet.
Toxicity is dose-dependent. Your dog's weight and the quantity consumed are both important - include these when you call poison control.
Rat poison / Rodenticide and cats
Cats may be exposed by eating poisoned rodents (relay toxicosis). Anticoagulant rodenticides accumulate in the tissues of rodents and can cause poisoning in cats that consume them.
Onset
3-5 days for anticoagulants
Symptoms
- - bleeding from gums, nose, or wounds
- - seizures
- - weakness
- - collapse
What to do now
Emergency. Call ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) or rush to an emergency vet. Bring the product packaging.
Data sources
- - ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- - Pet Poison Helpline
- - VCA Animal Hospital
Last reviewed: April 2026
Data error? Email data@treatortoxic.com with a source reference.