chemical
Rat poison
IMMEDIATE VET ATTENTION
Rat poison is potentially fatal to dogs. Different types cause bleeding, brain swelling or kidney failure.
If your dog has eaten this item, contact your vet or an emergency veterinary service now.
If your dog is showing symptoms such as difficulty breathing, seizures, collapse, severe vomiting, unconsciousness or other serious symptoms, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
What to do
Contact your vet immediately. Bring the bait packaging.
When to contact a vet: Emergency vet attention immediately. Do not wait for symptoms, especially with anticoagulants.
Symptoms to look for
- bruising
- bleeding gums
- blood in urine or faeces
- lethargy
- difficulty breathing
- seizures
- paralysis
- vomiting
Why
There are several types of rodenticide. Anticoagulants prevent blood clotting and cause internal bleeding a few days after ingestion. Cholecalciferol causes dangerously high calcium levels and kidney damage. Bromethalin causes brain swelling and paralysis. All are dangerous and the type determines treatment, so the packaging is vital.
- Substances of concern
- anticoagulants, vitamin D3, bromethalin
- Safer parts
- {}
- Parts to avoid
- {"any rat or mouse bait","poison blocks","grain-based baits"}
- Preparation
- No safe preparation.
- How much matters
- A small amount of bait can be lethal depending on the active ingredient.
- Severity
- Fatal if untreated
Sources
- Pet Poison HelplinePrimary authoritative — Chemical exposure
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlPrimary authoritative — Chemical exposure
Information reviewed against recognised veterinary and animal-safety sources. Source organisations are independent of Is It For Dogs unless otherwise stated.
Last reviewed 6 September 2026 · next review due September 2027.
Safety classifications are based on available expert and veterinary information. Individual dogs may react differently, particularly dogs with allergies, existing health conditions or specific dietary requirements.
Important: Is It For Dogs provides general information about the safety of foods, plants, drinks, ingredients and other items around dogs. Our information is based on sources we consider reliable and is intended to help dog owners make informed decisions. It is not a substitute for advice from a qualified veterinary professional. Read more
Dogs can react differently depending on their size, age, health, allergies, medications, the amount consumed and other circumstances. An item classified as Safe is not necessarily suitable for every individual dog.
If your dog has eaten something potentially poisonous or dangerous, has eaten an unknown substance, or is showing concerning symptoms, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary service immediately.
Do not induce vomiting or give your dog medication unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinary professional.