Is Antifreeze (Ethylene Glycol) Toxic to Dogs and Cats?
Yes, Antifreeze (Ethylene Glycol) is toxic to pets. Antifreeze containing ethylene glycol is one of the most dangerous substances for pets. It has a sweet taste that attracts animals, but even small amounts can be fatal. It causes rapid kidney failure if not treated within hours.
Toxic - Danger
Toxicity depends on the amount consumed and your pet’s weight. Contact your vet for dose-specific guidance.
Antifreeze containing ethylene glycol is one of the most dangerous substances for pets. It has a sweet taste that attracts animals, but even small amounts can be fatal. It causes rapid kidney failure if not treated within hours.
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Why Is Antifreeze (Ethylene Glycol) Toxic?
Toxic Compounds: Ethylene Glycol
What Happens in the Body: Ethylene glycol is metabolized to glycolic acid and oxalic acid, which form calcium oxalate crystals in the kidneys, causing irreversible damage.
Signs of Antifreeze (Ethylene Glycol) Poisoning
If your pet has been exposed to Antifreeze (Ethylene Glycol), watch for these symptoms:
- Stage 1 (30 min - 12 hrs): Appearing drunk, vomiting, excessive thirst
- Stage 2 (12-24 hrs): Rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing
- Stage 3 (24-72 hrs): Severe kidney failure, seizures, coma
What To Do If Your Pet Ate Antifreeze (Ethylene Glycol)
THIS IS A LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY
Seek immediate veterinary care - time is critical
Treatment must begin within 8-12 hours for dogs, 3 hours for cats
Bring any suspected antifreeze container
Do not wait for symptoms
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Veterinary Treatment
Antidote (fomepizole or ethanol) must be given within hours. IV fluids, dialysis in severe cases. Without treatment within the critical window, kidney damage is irreversible.
How Much Antifreeze (Ethylene Glycol) Is Dangerous?
Fatal dose: Dogs ~4.4ml/kg, Cats ~1.4ml/kg. As little as 1-2 tablespoons can kill a cat. There's a narrow treatment window before irreversible kidney damage.
Common Measurement Reference
1 tsp
~5 grams
1 tbsp
~15 grams
1 oz
~28 grams
1 cup
~240 grams
Pet Weight Categories
Small
<10 lbs (4.5 kg)
Medium
10–50 lbs (4.5–23 kg)
Large
50+ lbs (23+ kg)
Toxicity depends on your pet's weight, breed, and health conditions. This is for reference only — always contact your veterinarian for guidance specific to your pet.
Information for Veterinarians
Fatal dose: Dogs ~4.4ml/kg, Cats ~1.4ml/kg. As little as 1-2 tablespoons can kill a cat. There's a narrow treatment window before irreversible kidney damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes antifreeze so dangerous?
Its sweet taste attracts pets, and even tiny amounts cause rapid, irreversible kidney failure. Treatment must begin within hours to be effective.
Reviewed by: Dr. Amanda Hughes, DVM, DACVECC
Last updated: December 12, 2024
Sources: Pet Poison Helpline, ASPCA, Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care Society
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