A veterinary nurse has issued a warning to cat and dog owners about a common product that’s often used in winter that can be fatal if pets come into contact with it, even if its just a few drops
As freezing temperatures have gripped the UK, many motorists have been reaching for antifreeze sprays to clear ice from their vehicles before hitting the roads. However, a veterinary nurse has issued an urgent warning about the careful handling of these products, as they pose a serious threat to animals that encounter them.
The vet nurse named Jade has made a name for herself on TikTok, where she has over 206,600 followers, by posting her top tips to pet owners as a way to help them with any issue they might experience with their pet. In a recent video, she also made sure to warn people about using antifreeze products containing ethylene glycol, which can prove harmful to pets and other animals in the local area.
She warned her followers: “It’s absolutely freezing, and I just want to remind you guys that products containing ethylene glycol are highly toxic to cats.”
Ethylene glycol is a clear, sweet-tasting, viscous liquid used primarily as antifreeze or coolants in vehicles. It is also a raw material for polyester fibres, such as PET plastic. It’s poisonous if ingested, especially for cats.
The RSPCA has reported it often causes severe kidney damage and can even kill cats within 24 hours. It can also prove fatal for dogs and other pets. A lethal dose for an average cat is just 1-2 teaspoons, making immediate veterinary care crucial within 12 hours of exposure in order to save the pet.
Jade continued by explaining that cats are attracted to drinking this due to its sweet taste – and it’s not just sipping it directly from the bottle that poses a risk. Jade highlighted the dangers of using products like anti-freeze on your car, as it can contaminate nearby puddles.
She warned: “And [if the cats] drink out of the puddle, they can also get toxicity through there as well.”
Jade then advised people to steer clear of products containing ethylene glycol, such as de-icing sprays, if possible. Instead, she suggests using an ice scraper to deal with frosty windows. Even if it means spending an extra 10-15 minutes defrosting your car every morning, you could potentially save a pet’s life.
She continued: “If you have got a cat and you’re thinking ‘what can I do to protect him from ethylene glycol poisoning?'”.
“In all honesty, if your cat goes outside, there’s not a lot you can do. That’s apart from keeping them indoors during these really cold weathers where people are likely going to be using anti-freeze.
“But for some people, that is not an option. So all that you can really do is be vigilant for signs of toxicity, which can be vomiting, seizures, collapse, drinking more. And if you notice any of these symptoms, get your cat to the vet as soon as possible.”
RSCPA’s tips to protect animals from antifreeze products
The RSPCA has reported that pets die every year from accidental antifreeze poisonings, often from leaks or spills. However, they stressed that most of these deaths are preventable. They went on to share their tips on how to best protect your cat from poisoning.
Firstly, regularly inspect your car to ensure it isn’t leaking water coolant. Be mindful of where you store, use and dispose of antifreeze and water coolant.
If you spot a spill or leak of these products, it’s crucial to clean it up immediately, regardless of the size of the spill. You should also make sure no pets or animals can access the area until it’s thoroughly cleaned.
Lastly, if you need to get rid of any hazardous products, the RSPCA advises doing so responsibly. If unsure about disposal locations, contact your local authority for guidance.
