Why does metaldehyde poison so quickly?
Metaldehyde is absorbed rapidly from the stomach and hits the central nervous system, causing severe tremors and seizures that can begin within 30 minutes to 3 hours. It can also raise body temperature dangerously high.
Signs are possible from roughly 10 mg/kg of metaldehyde; severe seizures above ~30 mg/kg. Pellets vary between 2% and 6%.
Symptoms of metaldehyde poisoning
- Vomiting, drooling, excessive panting
- Muscle tremors, twitching of the face
- Incoordination, appearing "drunk"
- Seizures, very high body temperature
- Collapse and breathing failure in severe cases
What to do right now
- Call your vet now — seizures can start quickly and are hard to control at home.
- Do not try to make the dog vomit if it is already twitching or seizing.
- Bring the bait packaging to confirm the metaldehyde percentage.
- Keep the dog cool and calm on the way to the vet.
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
- Antihistamines (Diphenhydramine) — shares signs: vomiting, seizures
- Antidepressant (SSRI) Poisoning — shares signs: vomiting, seizures
- 5-HTP & Herbal Supplements — shares signs: vomiting, seizures
Owners also ask
- What happens if I give my cat diphenhydramine (Benadryl) regularly for allergies?
- My dog just ate one of my antidepressant pills (SSRI like Prozac) — what do I do?
Frequently asked questions
Is Slug Bait (Metaldehyde) Toxicity Calculator poisonous to a dog or cat?
Metaldehyde is absorbed rapidly from the stomach and hits the central nervous system, causing severe tremors and seizures that can begin within 30 minutes to 3 hours. It can also raise body temperature dangerously high.
What are the symptoms of metaldehyde poisoning?
Vomiting, drooling, excessive panting; Muscle tremors, twitching of the face; Incoordination, appearing "drunk"; Seizures, very high body temperature
What should I do if my pet ate Slug Bait (Metaldehyde) Toxicity Calculator?
Call your vet now — seizures can start quickly and are hard to control at home. Do not try to make the dog vomit if it is already twitching or seizing. Bring the bait packaging to confirm the metaldehyde percentage.
How much Slug Bait (Metaldehyde) Toxicity Calculator is dangerous?
Signs are possible from roughly 10 mg/kg of metaldehyde; severe seizures above ~30 mg/kg. Pellets vary between 2% and 6%.
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