Toxin Tuesdays: Ethanol (Alcohol)

Alcohol is just not good for out pets! (Image Source)

Alcohol is probably not one of the more common toxins we think of in pets. However it is important to remember it can be harmful to our furry friends. There are several sources of alcohol (or rather the active ingredient ethanol) that can be found around the house. The most common source include alcoholic beverages, but we can also find it in some windshield wiper fluids, cleaning products,  and also in some types of paints. While it may not seem appealing to ingest some of these products many of our pets will do just that.

 

If an accidental exposure happens call your vet! (Image Source)

Symptoms for exposure to ethanol include decreased activity bordering on depressed attitude, stumbling gait and even sedation. In some cases their body temperature will begin to drop.

 

Water is the best source of liquid for out pets! (Image Source)

Treatment includes supporting the patient until the ethanol is out of their system and they are no longer symptomatic. Because alcohol is so rapidly absorbed in the gastro-intestinal tract many times inducing vomiting will not be beneficial. If large exposure they may require hospitalization with fluids. At home care will include warm bedding, monitoring their heart rate and respiratory rate.

 

If you want to share a drink with your pet share some water! (Image Source)

Happily, most cases will resolve in 24 hours and there seem to be no long term side effects. Even though the symptoms may seem small and generally there are positive outcomes, it is still best to keep your pets away from any products containing ethanol. Remember in our pets a little can definitely go a long way.