Toxin Tuesdays: Nicotine

Keep nicotine containing products away from your pets (Image Source)

Nicotine and tobacco are toxins that many pets will have easy access to and therefore it is not uncommon to see side effects. Overall tobacco only poses a mild to moderate risk to our pets. However, it is still a very good idea to keep our pets away from the products.

 

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Nicotine is can be absorbed very quickly from the small intestines. This means side effects may occur as soon as one hour after ingestion. Something else to consider is some products (such as some of the gums) may have xylitol in them which is MUCH more serious than the tobacco in them. It is important to know what products your pet may have been exposed to so appropriate treatment can be initiated.

 

Both of these products can pose a risk for our pets (Image Source)

Possible side effects include vomiting, increased salivation and diarrhea. These are the most likely to occur. We may also see an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. After the initial excitement and hyperactivity we may see a significant decrease in activity and in heart rate. In many cases the symptoms could be self-limiting and resolve within a few hours. This will depend on the product that was consumed and how much of it. In extreme cases it hospitalization may be necessary for the first day. Regardless, if you know your pet has gotten into a product containing nicotine it is best to contact your veterinarian to determine if further action is needed.

 

Nicotine containing gum can add extra hazards as some contain xylitol which is toxic to pets. 

Overall if the exposure was a lower dose of nicotine and NOT something that included xylitol, then the prognosis is usually pretty good. If the exposure was very high, had additional products (such xylitol) then hospitalization and supportive care may be necessary. The important thing is to keep products like this away from your pet and if accidental exposure occurs call your veterinarian immediately.