For many years, if a pet ingested rat/mouse poison, the treatment was to induce vomiting, and then follow up with vitamin K. Sometimes activated charcoal or additional treatments were needed. Most cases, if caught early, were not fatal. The active ingredients in most of these rat poisons was a second generation anticoagulant. In 2008, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) passed a law prohibiting the use of long acting anti-coagulants (second generation anticoagulants) in homes. They passed this in effort to reduce secondarily poisoning wildlife. Most manufacturers became compliant with this in the years following, switching to active ingredients such as bromethalin, first generation anticoagulants (such as warfarin), and cholecalciferol (vitamin D3). d-Con, a major manufacturer of rodenticides, argued with the EPA that bromethalin is a potent neurotoxin, and a ban on second generation anticoagulants would increase the risk of poisoning to children and pets. As predicted, many companies began using bromethalin as their active ingredient. Bromethalin causes cerebral edema (swelling of the brain), and has no antidote. The treatment is only supportive, often repeated doses of activated charcoal throughout 24 hours, and intensive care hospitalization if swelling develops. The drug remains in the system for a long time, so clinical signs may persist for weeks, and can even become permanent. In 2014, d-Con […]
Learn MoreHeritage Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinarian clinic that provides examinations, diagnostic services, dental care, surgical services, medicine, grooming and boarding services in Maple Grove, Minnesota. We are dedicated to providing the highest level of pet care possible and facilitating an environment where client communication and education are at the forefront of our practice.
12624 Base Lake Road
Maple Grove, MN 55369
Mon-Fri: 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Sat: 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.