What to Do If a Dog Eats Rat Poison

Understanding the Danger of Rat Poison

Types of Rat Poison and Their Effects

Anticoagulant Rodenticides

Anticoagulant rodenticides are the most common type of poison used in rodent control. They function by interrupting the vitamin K cycle, which prevents the synthesis of clotting factors II, VII, IX, and X. Without these proteins, blood cannot clot, leading to internal bleeding.

When a dog consumes bait containing an anticoagulant, clinical signs may appear within 12–48 hours. Common manifestations include:

Weakness or lethargy
Nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or blood in urine and stool
Pale gums and rapid heartbeat
Bruising or swelling in joints

Immediate steps are critical. First, call a veterinarian or an emergency animal poison control hotline. Provide details about the product, estimated amount ingested, and time since exposure. If the dog is still conscious and able to swallow, induce vomiting only under professional guidance; some products contain irritants that can cause additional harm when vomited. Activated charcoal may be administered to bind residual toxin in the gastrointestinal tract.

Veterinary treatment typically involves:

Intravenous administration of vitamin K1 (phytonadione) to restore clotting factor production. Initial dosing ranges from 5 mg to 10 mg per kilogram of body weight, repeated every 12 hours until laboratory tests confirm normal clotting times.
Supportive care, such as fluid therapy and blood transfusions, to address hemorrhage.
Serial blood work (prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time) to monitor recovery.

Because anticoagulant rodenticides have long half‑lives, treatment may continue for several weeks. Owners should complete the full course of vitamin K1 even after clinical signs resolve, to prevent delayed bleeding.

Preventive measures reduce risk. Secure bait in tamper‑proof containers, place it out of reach of pets, and consider using non‑anticoagulant alternatives when possible. Regular inspection of yards and prompt removal of stray bait further protect animals.

Understanding the toxic mechanism, recognizing early symptoms, and initiating prompt veterinary intervention are essential to improve outcomes for dogs that ingest these poisons.

Non-Anticoagulant Rodenticides

Non‑anticoagulant rodenticides are chemicals designed to control rodent populations without affecting blood clotting. Common agents include bromethalin (a neurotoxin), zinc phosphide (releases phosphine gas), cholecalciferol (vitamin D₃ excess), and sodium fluoroacetate (a metabolic poison). Their toxicity stems from disruption of cellular energy production, calcium regulation, or respiratory function, leading to rapid organ failure in dogs.

Ingestion typically produces neurological signs (tremors, seizures, ataxia) with bromethalin, respiratory distress and vomiting with zinc phosphide, hypercalcemia‑related polyuria, polydipsia, and cardiac arrhythmias with cholecalciferol, and severe weakness, vomiting, and metabolic acidosis with fluoroacetate. Onset may range from minutes to several hours, depending on the compound and dose.

If a dog is suspected of consuming any non‑anticoagulant rodenticide, follow these steps:

Contact a veterinarian or emergency poison control line immediately; provide product name, amount, and time of exposure.
Do not induce vomiting unless instructed; some agents (e.g., zinc phosphide) can cause additional toxic gas release.
If advised, administer activated charcoal (1 g/kg) to bind remaining toxin in the gastrointestinal tract.
Keep the animal warm, monitor breathing, and be prepared to transport to a clinic for intravenous fluids, seizure control, and specific antidotes.

Veterinary management may involve:

Intravenous lipid emulsion therapy for bromethalin to sequester lipophilic toxin.
Calcium‑binding agents (e.g., calcitonin, pamidronate) and aggressive fluid therapy for cholecalciferol‑induced hypercalcemia.
Supportive ventilation and correction of metabolic acidosis for fluoroacetate exposure.
Continuous monitoring of neurological status, cardiac rhythm, and renal function throughout treatment.

Prevention includes storing all rodenticides in locked containers, limiting dog access to areas where bait is placed, and using pet‑safe alternatives such as snap traps or electronic devices. Prompt recognition and targeted intervention are essential to reduce mortality from these potent chemicals.

Symptoms of Poisoning

Immediate Signs

When a dog ingests rodenticide, the first indication of toxicity appears rapidly. Recognizing these signs enables prompt veterinary intervention.

Vomiting, often accompanied by blood
Diarrhea, frequently watery and possibly hemorrhagic
Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth
Lethargy or sudden collapse
Pale or bluish gums indicating poor circulation
Rapid, shallow breathing or difficulty breathing
Seizures or uncontrolled muscle twitching
Unusual bruising or bleeding from the nose, gums, or rectum

Immediate observation of any combination of these symptoms warrants emergency veterinary care. Delay increases the risk of irreversible organ damage and death.

Delayed Symptoms

When a dog consumes rat poison, clinical signs often emerge hours to days after exposure. Anticoagulant formulations block vitamin K recycling, so clotting factors decline gradually; non‑anticoagulant toxins may cause organ damage that becomes apparent only after metabolic processes are disrupted. Owners should expect a silent interval before observable problems develop.

Typical delayed manifestations include:

Weakness or lethargy
Pale or bruised gums
Nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or blood in urine and stool
Unexplained bruising or swelling
Vomiting and diarrhea that contain blood
Difficulty breathing or rapid heart rate
Seizures or tremors (rare, associated with neurotoxic agents)

If any of these symptoms appear, seek veterinary care immediately, even if the ingestion event occurred several days earlier. Prompt treatment with vitamin K1, blood transfusions, or toxin‑specific antidotes can reverse coagulopathy and improve prognosis. Monitoring should continue for at least a week, as some rodenticides maintain activity for up to 14 days.

Immediate Actions and First Aid

What to Do Immediately

Secure Your Dog

If a dog has access to rodenticide, the first defense is to eliminate that access. Store all bait, traps, and poisoned pellets in containers that lock securely and can be opened only with a key. Choose metal or heavy‑duty plastic boxes with tamper‑resistant lids; place them on shelves out of reach or in locked cabinets.

Keep the dog confined or supervised when the household is using poison. Use a leash or a fenced area that prevents the animal from wandering into kitchens, basements, or garages where bait may be hidden. When cleaning up after applying rodent control, wear gloves and immediately dispose of any leftover crumbs in a sealed bag.

Implement training that reinforces “leave it” and “come” commands. Consistent practice reduces the likelihood that a curious dog will investigate or ingest harmful substances.

Maintain a routine that includes:

Daily inspection of areas where bait is stored or applied.
Immediate removal of any stray pellets discovered during walks or in the yard.
Regular checks of trash cans; secure lids or use dog‑proof containers.

If a dog shows interest in a suspicious object, intervene promptly and prevent ingestion. Quick action, combined with secure storage and vigilant supervision, dramatically lowers the risk of accidental poisoning.

Collect Evidence of the Poison

When a dog has potentially consumed rodenticide, securing reliable evidence of the toxin is essential for timely veterinary intervention and accurate reporting.

First, isolate the area where the incident occurred. Preserve any leftover bait, containers, or packaging without disturbing them. Handle items with disposable gloves to avoid contaminating the evidence. Place each piece in a sealed plastic bag, label with the date and location, and keep separate from other household waste.

Second, document the scene. Take clear photographs of the bait, its placement, and surrounding environment from multiple angles. Include close‑up shots of labels, expiration dates, and any hazard symbols. Record the exact address, room, and coordinates if applicable.

Third, gather information about the product. Note the brand name, active ingredient (e.g., bromadiolone, brodifacoum), concentration, and batch number. If a safety data sheet is available, copy relevant sections detailing toxicity and recommended treatment.

Fourth, obtain a veterinary assessment. Request a written statement that confirms the dog’s exposure, symptoms observed, and any diagnostic tests performed. The report should reference the identified poison when possible.

Fifth, retain all receipts or purchase records. Credit‑card statements, online order confirmations, or store invoices help verify the product’s origin and may be required by authorities or insurance providers.

Collecting this evidence promptly and systematically increases the likelihood of effective medical care and facilitates any necessary legal or insurance processes.

Do Not Induce Vomiting Without Veterinary Guidance

If a dog has consumed rodenticide, the first instinct may be to induce vomiting. This action should only be taken under direct veterinary instruction. Unsupervised emesis can cause aspiration, worsen toxin exposure, or damage the esophagus.

Contact a veterinarian or an emergency animal poison control line immediately. Provide details about the product, amount potentially ingested, and the time elapsed.
Follow the professional’s guidance precisely. If they advise against vomiting, do not attempt it with any home remedy or over‑the‑counter medication.
Keep the dog calm and restrict movement to prevent rapid absorption of the poison.
Prepare to bring the pet to a clinic for possible activated charcoal administration, antidotes, or supportive care as directed by the veterinarian.

Attempting to force vomiting without expert advice introduces significant risk and may complicate later treatment. Rely on qualified medical counsel for safe and effective management.

Contact Your Veterinarian Urgently

If a dog has ingested any form of rodenticide, immediate veterinary contact is essential. Call the clinic without delay, describe the product, estimated amount consumed, and time since ingestion. Provide the dog’s weight, age, and any observed symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, or seizures.

While waiting for instructions, keep the animal calm and prevent further exposure. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically directed by the veterinarian. Gather the product label or packaging to share exact ingredients, as some poisons contain anticoagulants, neurotoxins, or metal phosphides that require different treatments.

When arriving at the clinic, bring the dog’s medical records and the poison container. Expect the veterinarian to perform decontamination, administer activated charcoal, and initiate antidotal therapy (e.g., vitamin K1 for anticoagulant exposure). Continuous monitoring of blood clotting parameters and organ function will follow.

Prompt professional intervention dramatically improves the prognosis; any hesitation can lead to irreversible damage.

Veterinary Treatment Options

Diagnostic Procedures

Blood Tests

When a dog consumes anticoagulant rodenticide, immediate veterinary assessment is required. Blood analysis provides the objective data needed to confirm poisoning, gauge severity, and direct treatment.

Complete blood count (CBC) – reveals anemia, white‑cell changes, and platelet count.
Serum chemistry panel – assesses liver and kidney function, electrolyte balance, and detects metabolic disturbances.
Coagulation profile – includes prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) to quantify clotting deficits.
Specific toxin assay – measures the concentration of the anticoagulant in the bloodstream, if available.
Factor activity tests – determine levels of clotting factors II, VII, IX, and X when detailed evaluation is needed.

The initial sample is taken upon presentation. Follow‑up collections at 6–12 hours and again at 24 hours track the progression of coagulopathy and the effectiveness of therapy. Results influence the dosage and duration of vitamin K1 administration, indicate the need for plasma or whole‑blood transfusions, and signal when additional interventions are necessary to prevent hemorrhage.

By interpreting these laboratory values, clinicians can tailor supportive care, avoid under‑ or over‑treatment, and improve the prognosis for dogs exposed to rat poison.

Urinalysis

When a dog has consumed rodenticide, immediate veterinary evaluation is required. Urinalysis forms a core component of the diagnostic work‑up, providing rapid insight into bleeding, renal function, and metabolic disturbances.

The test examines several measurable factors:

Color and clarity – detect hematuria or bilirubin.
Specific gravity – assess hydration status.
pH – identify acid‑base shifts.
Presence of blood, protein, glucose, ketones, and crystals – reveal coagulopathy, renal injury, or secondary metabolic effects.
Microscopic sediment – uncover red blood cells, casts, or toxin‑related crystals.

Anticoagulant poisons commonly trigger internal bleeding; detection of blood in urine confirms hematuria and supports the diagnosis of coagulopathy. Protein loss signals glomerular compromise, which may develop from toxin‑induced nephrotoxicity. Altered pH and low specific gravity often accompany dehydration and metabolic acidosis that accompany severe poisoning.

Sample collection should follow sterile technique: obtain a free‑catch specimen when possible, otherwise use a urinary catheter with a sterile container. Process the sample within two hours; refrigerate if delayed, but avoid freezing to preserve cellular elements.

Interpretation links directly to therapeutic decisions. Hematuria prompts administration of vitamin K1 and plasma transfusion. Proteinuria may warrant aggressive fluid therapy and renal protectants. Abnormal specific gravity or pH guides fluid composition and electrolyte correction. Microscopic findings of casts or crystals influence the choice of diuretics or antidotes.

Urinalysis results complement blood work (CBC, coagulation profile, serum chemistry) and imaging studies, creating a comprehensive picture that directs timely, targeted treatment for a dog that has ingested rat poison.

Imaging

When a dog has swallowed rodenticide, imaging becomes a critical step in evaluating internal injury and guiding treatment. The veterinarian may select one or more modalities based on the dog’s clinical signs, time since ingestion, and suspected complications.

Radiography provides a quick overview of the gastrointestinal tract. Plain abdominal films can reveal radiopaque poison fragments, gastric distension, or signs of perforation such as free air. Contrast studies, using barium or water‑soluble agents, enhance visualization of mucosal lesions and obstruction.

Ultrasound offers real‑time assessment of soft‑tissue structures. It detects intestinal wall thickening, fluid collections, and hemorrhage. Doppler imaging evaluates blood flow to the liver and kidneys, organs often affected by anticoagulant rodenticides.

Computed tomography (CT) delivers detailed cross‑sectional images. It identifies subtle hemorrhages, organ infarctions, and vascular thrombosis that may not appear on plain films. When contrast is administered, CT clarifies perfusion deficits and helps locate active bleeding sites.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is valuable for neurological evaluation if the dog exhibits seizures, ataxia, or other central nervous system signs. MRI can detect cerebral edema, hemorrhage, or ischemic lesions resulting from severe coagulopathy.

Choosing the appropriate technique follows a logical sequence:

Initial assessment: Plain radiography to rule out obvious obstruction or perforation.
If abdominal pain or signs of internal bleeding persist: Ultrasound to identify fluid collections and organ involvement.
When radiography and ultrasound are inconclusive or vascular injury is suspected: Contrast‑enhanced CT for comprehensive vascular and parenchymal evaluation.
If neurological deficits are present: MRI to assess brain pathology.

Imaging results influence immediate therapeutic decisions. Detecting intraperitoneal bleeding may prompt surgical intervention, while identification of organ infarction guides targeted supportive care and monitoring. In all cases, imaging complements, rather than replaces, prompt decontamination measures, antidotal therapy, and laboratory testing.

Treatment for Anticoagulant Poisoning

Vitamin K Therapy

Vitamin K1 (phytonadione) counteracts the anticoagulant effect of most rodenticide compounds. After ingestion, the toxin blocks vitamin K recycling, preventing clot formation; supplemental vitamin K restores the clotting cascade.

Administration guidelines:

Begin treatment as soon as possible, preferably within the first few hours of exposure.
Use oral tablets or liquid formulation; the oral route is effective for most second‑generation anticoagulants.
Recommended dosage for dogs: 2.5 mg per kilogram of body weight every 12 hours for 7–10 days, adjusted according to blood‑coagulant test results.
Intravenous vitamin K is reserved for severe coagulopathy or when oral absorption is compromised; dosage is 0.1 mg/kg once, followed by oral maintenance.

Monitoring protocol:

Perform baseline prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) before treatment.
Repeat PT/aPTT every 24 hours for the first three days, then every 48 hours until values normalize.
Observe for signs of hemorrhage: petechiae, ecchymoses, hematuria, melena, or prolonged bleeding from minor wounds.

Potential adverse effects:

Rare hypersensitivity reactions to the injectable form.
Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea) may occur with oral administration; mitigate with food.

Follow‑up considerations:

Continue vitamin K therapy for the full prescribed course even after laboratory values return to normal to prevent rebound coagulopathy.
Schedule a final coagulation profile 2 weeks after therapy completion to confirm sustained recovery.
Educate owners on secure storage of rodenticides to eliminate future risk.

Blood Transfusions

When a canine consumes anticoagulant rodenticide, bleeding may become severe enough to require a blood transfusion. The decision hinges on clinical signs such as rapid pulse, pale mucous membranes, prolonged clotting times, and a drop in hematocrit below 30 %. Immediate laboratory assessment guides whether replacement of blood components is necessary.

Veterinarians typically follow these steps:

Confirm diagnosis with a coagulation profile (PT, aPTT) and complete blood count.
Initiate intravenous fluid therapy to maintain perfusion.
Administer vitamin K1 to counteract the toxin’s effect on clotting factors.
If hematocrit falls critically low or hemorrhage persists, arrange a compatible donor and perform a packed red blood cell transfusion.
Monitor vital signs, repeat hematocrit measurements, and watch for transfusion reactions throughout the procedure.

Donor selection requires blood type compatibility (DEA 1.1 negative is universally accepted) and health screening to exclude infectious diseases. The transfusion volume generally equals 10–15 ml/kg, delivered over 30–60 minutes, with a pause for observation of any adverse response. Post‑transfusion care includes continued vitamin K1 administration for 7–10 days and repeat coagulation testing to ensure stabilization.

Successful transfusion can restore oxygen‑carrying capacity, reduce shock risk, and buy time for the body to synthesize new clotting factors while antidotal therapy takes effect. Prompt recognition of the need for blood replacement and adherence to sterile, species‑specific protocols are critical for improving survival outcomes after rodenticide ingestion.

Treatment for Non-Anticoagulant Poisoning

Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is a first‑line decontamination agent when a dog has ingested anticoagulant rodenticide. The powder adsorbs toxins in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing systemic absorption. Administration should occur as soon as possible after exposure; delay diminishes efficacy.

Use a veterinary‑approved formulation of activated charcoal.
Dose: 1–2 g per kilogram of body weight, administered orally.
Mix the powder with a small amount of water or syrup to form a slurry; deliver via syringe or feeding tube if the dog will not swallow voluntarily.
Ensure the dog does not vomit immediately after dosing; if vomiting occurs, repeat the dose within 30 minutes, but do not exceed the total recommended amount.

Activated charcoal does not neutralize all rodenticide compounds; it is ineffective against metal phosphides and some second‑generation anticoagulants. Immediate veterinary evaluation remains mandatory. The veterinarian may supplement charcoal with vitamin K1 therapy, blood‑clotting assessments, and supportive care. If the dog shows signs of bleeding, lethargy, or abdominal distress, seek emergency treatment without delay.

Symptomatic and Supportive Care

If a dog has ingested anticoagulant rodenticide, immediate attention to symptoms and supportive measures can prevent life‑threatening complications. Observe the animal for signs such as vomiting, lethargy, pale gums, bruising, or uncontrolled bleeding. Prompt veterinary evaluation is essential; however, owners can initiate basic care while en route to the clinic.

Assess airway, breathing, and circulation; administer oxygen if respiratory distress is evident.
If ingestion occurred within the past two hours and the dog is alert, a veterinarian may induce emesis or perform gastric lavage to remove unabsorbed toxin.
Provide activated charcoal (1 g/kg) to bind residual poison; repeat dosing may be required based on clinical judgment.
Initiate intravenous crystalloid fluids (20–30 mL/kg bolus) to sustain perfusion and support renal clearance.
Monitor coagulation parameters (PT, aPTT) and complete blood count every 6–12 hours; correct coagulopathy with vitamin K1 (2–5 mg/kg orally or intravenously) for a minimum of 4 weeks.
Treat seizures with benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam 0.5 mg/kg IV) and, if needed, phenobarbital.
Maintain body temperature; apply warming blankets for hypothermia.
Provide analgesia and anti‑inflammatory drugs only after confirming no contraindications with coagulation status.

Continuous observation for delayed hemorrhage is crucial, as anticoagulant effects may emerge 24–48 hours post‑exposure. Adjust fluid therapy, vitamin K1 dosing, and supportive interventions based on repeat laboratory results and clinical response.

Prevention and Follow-Up

Preventing Future Incidents

Secure Storage of Poisons

Secure storage of toxic substances prevents accidental ingestion by pets and reduces emergency incidents. Keep all rodent control products, insecticides, and other hazardous chemicals in a location inaccessible to animals, such as a locked cabinet or a high shelf behind a child‑proof door. Choose containers made of sturdy, opaque material; label each with a clear hazard warning and store them away from food, water, and cleaning supplies.

Key practices for safe containment:

Use a dedicated, lockable storage unit that only authorized adults can open.
Place containers on a stable surface to avoid tipping or falling.
Ensure lids are tightly sealed and, when possible, use tamper‑resistant caps.
Separate poisons from non‑hazardous items to eliminate confusion.
Conduct regular inventory checks; discard expired or damaged products according to local disposal regulations.

Implementing these measures creates a controlled environment that minimizes the risk of a dog accessing lethal compounds, thereby supporting effective response strategies should exposure occur.

Alternative Pest Control Methods

When a dog consumes rodenticide, preventing future exposure begins with replacing toxic baits with safer pest‑management options.

Mechanical traps (snap or live‑catch) eliminate rodents without chemical hazards.
Ultrasonic devices emit frequencies uncomfortable to rodents, reducing activity in treated zones.
Natural repellents such as peppermint oil, cayenne pepper, or diatomaceous earth deter rodents through scent or texture.
Proper sanitation removes food sources, limiting rodent attraction.
Enclosed bait stations equipped with child‑ and pet‑safe locks contain poison within a protected compartment, preventing accidental ingestion.
Professional exclusion services seal entry points, creating a physical barrier against infestation.

Implementing these alternatives involves regular inspection of trap placement, periodic replacement of ultrasonic units, consistent application of natural deterrents, and maintenance of a clean environment. When bait stations are necessary, choose models certified for pet safety and position them out of reach. Engaging qualified pest‑control specialists ensures comprehensive assessment and long‑term reduction of rodent activity without exposing dogs to lethal chemicals.

Supervise Your Dog Outdoors

Supervision of a dog while it is outside is a critical preventive measure when rodenticide exposure is possible. Unattended dogs can locate and ingest poison placed in gutters, under decks, or in garden beds. Continuous visual oversight eliminates the chance for accidental consumption.

Effective outdoor monitoring includes:

Keeping the dog on a short leash or within a securely fenced area.
Removing any visible bait, dead rodents, or suspicious containers from the yard.
Inspecting the perimeter for hidden traps or poison stations before allowing free access.
Using a harness with a long, retractable line to maintain control while giving the dog room to move.
Conducting regular sweeps of the property for discarded bait packets or spilled poison.

If a dog shows signs of illness after potential exposure, immediate veterinary attention is required. Early detection combined with strict supervision reduces the risk of severe toxicity.

Long-Term Monitoring and Care

Follow-Up Veterinary Appointments

When a dog has consumed rodenticide, the initial emergency visit is only the first step; scheduled follow‑up appointments are essential for monitoring recovery and adjusting treatment.

The first re‑evaluation should occur within 12–24 hours after the emergency care. The veterinarian will reassess vital signs, repeat blood work to track clotting parameters, and verify that antidotes such as vitamin K1 are achieving the desired effect. If laboratory results remain abnormal, the clinician may modify the dosage or frequency of the medication.

A second follow‑up is typically arranged 48 hours later. At this visit, the focus shifts to confirming stabilization of coagulation values, observing for any delayed bleeding, and ensuring the dog tolerates oral medication. The practitioner may also discuss dietary recommendations that support liver function and overall healing.

Subsequent appointments are spaced at 3‑day intervals until laboratory values return to normal. During each visit, the veterinarian will:

Review the dog’s clinical status and owner observations.
Perform targeted blood tests (e.g., PT, aPTT) to confirm normalization.
Adjust vitamin K1 dosing based on trends.
Provide guidance on activity restriction and wound care, if needed.

Once coagulation metrics are within reference ranges, the final check‑up, usually scheduled 7–10 days after the last abnormal result, confirms that the treatment course can be safely concluded. The vet will advise on tapering the antidote, if appropriate, and outline signs that require immediate attention, such as unexplained bruising, nosebleeds, or lethargy.

Adhering to the prescribed schedule of veterinary visits maximizes the likelihood of full recovery and prevents complications that can arise from incomplete treatment.

Observing for Relapse

After a dog has consumed rodenticide, continuous observation is vital to detect any delayed or recurring toxicity. Even if initial treatment appears successful, symptoms can reappear as the toxin is metabolized or as secondary complications develop.

Vomiting or retching after a period of stability
Diarrhea, especially with blood or mucus
Weakness, wobbliness, or difficulty standing
Pale or bluish gums indicating reduced oxygen delivery
Unexplained bleeding from the nose, gums, or urinary tract
Increased heart rate or irregular rhythm
Seizure activity or sudden collapse

Record the time each sign emerges, its severity, and any changes after medication or supportive care. Compare observations with the dog’s baseline behavior to identify subtle deviations.

If any listed indicator surfaces, contact a veterinarian immediately, even if the dog previously seemed recovered. Prompt medical reassessment can prevent progression to severe organ damage or fatal outcomes. Continuous vigilance until the veterinary team confirms complete resolution is essential for the animal’s safety.