Toxin Tuedays: Bromethalin

Rodenticides should be kept FAR FAR away from our pets! (Image Source) 

Bromethalin is another type of pest control that is maybe not as well-known as some of the other rodenticides. Common brands that will include bromethalin are Assault, No Pest Rat and Mice Killer, Tomcat Mole Killer and Vengeance. With this type of poison, it is the nervous system that is most commonly affected. Other systems that could be affected include the kidney and liver.

 

It doesn't matter the form or where you put it, our pets have a way of finding poisons! (Image Source)

Typically signs can start within 12 hours or up to 5 days after exposure. Typically we will start to see depression, seizures and coma depending on the dose ingested. Additionally, owners may start to note weakness, tremors or a drunken gait. As the symptoms progress the breathing will also begin to decline. If you see your pet ingest this product it is very important to call your veterinarian immediately.

 

Rat poisons can start to make our pets feel sick within 12 hours! (Image Source)

The best chance for a full recovery is early detection and decontamination. This may include inducing vomiting in the patient and administering a product to help bind any residual toxin in the stomach. Make sure you talk to your veterinarian as soon as ingestion is suspected. In some cases if the patient is already showing symptoms they may require hospitalization and intravenous fluids/ supportive care. There is no antidote, but treatment can be instituted for the secondary side effects including seizures and tremors.

 

With the decreased use of anti-coagulants for rodenticides, we are starting to see Bromethalin exposures on the rise (Image Source)

As stated before, the sooner treatment can be started the more likely it is for a positive outcome. One thing to remember is if you have this product down, even if you think your pet can’t get into it they can. Even if they have never EVER bothered it before, they might. Be on the lookout for any signs of it being chewed by your pet or any of the above symptoms. Call your veterinarian right away if you have ANY concerns.