Why is Ethylene Glycol so dangerous?
Ethylene glycol is metabolized into a toxic substance that can cause severe kidney damage.
It is sweet-tasting and attractive to pets, leading to accidental ingestion.
Why speed matters
Delaying care significantly worsens outcomes. Some signs appear hours or days later, so "looks fine right now" is not a reason to wait.
Symptoms of antifreeze-ethylene-glycol poisoning
- Vomiting and diarrhea within 2-6 hours
- Lethargy and weakness
- Increased thirst and urination
- Severe kidney damage
- Potential for coma and death
What to do right now
- Call your vet or a poison line immediately.
- Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a vet.
- Bring any remaining antifreeze for identification.
- Monitor for signs of kidney failure.
- Follow vet's treatment plan closely.
If your pet shows any of the signs above, go to the nearest emergency vet now and call ahead.
Sources & further reading
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control — pet poison database & dosage references
- Pet Poison Helpline — toxicology triage guidelines
- Merck Veterinary Manual — toxicology monographs
- Vets Now (UK) — emergency toxicosis guidance
Other poisonings with overlapping signs
- Beach Toxins Poisoning in Dogs and Cats — shares signs: lethargy and weakness, increased thirst and urination
- Toxic Houseplants Poisoning in Dogs and Cats — shares signs: lethargy and weakness, increased thirst and urination
- Rhubarb Leaves Poisoning in Dogs and Cats — shares signs: increased thirst and urination
Owners also ask
- My 8 kg dog drank from a blue-green algae bloom at the beach while my other dog stayed dry — what should I watch for in the first few hours?
- My 4 kg cat with chronic kidney disease chewed on a lily yesterday — is this an emergency?
Frequently asked questions
Is Antifreeze Ethylene Glycol Poisoning in Dogs and Cats poisonous to a dog or cat?
Ethylene glycol is metabolized into a toxic substance that can cause severe kidney damage.
What are the symptoms of antifreeze-ethylene-glycol poisoning?
Vomiting and diarrhea within 2-6 hours; Lethargy and weakness; Increased thirst and urination; Severe kidney damage
What should I do if my pet ate Antifreeze Ethylene Glycol Poisoning in Dogs and Cats?
Call your vet or a poison line immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a vet. Bring any remaining antifreeze for identification.
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