What to do if a pig ate a poisoned rat? - briefly
Immediately contact a veterinarian, providing the type of toxin and the time of ingestion of the «poisoned rodent». Observe the pig for signs such as lethargy, vomiting, or respiratory distress and follow the professional treatment plan.
What to do if a pig ate a poisoned rat? - in detail
If a swine consumes a rodent that has been laced with poison, rapid and systematic action is essential to minimize toxicity and preserve the animal’s health.
The first priority is to prevent further ingestion of the toxin. Remove the pig from any source of contaminated feed or water and place it in a clean, isolated pen. Observe the animal for any immediate signs of distress, such as vomiting, excessive salivation, tremors, convulsions, or respiratory difficulty.
Next, obtain detailed information about the poison involved. Identify the active ingredient, concentration, and estimated amount ingested. This data is critical for selecting the appropriate antidote or supportive therapy. If the poison is unknown, treat based on the most common rodenticides, which often contain anticoagulants, metal phosphides, or bromethalin.
Contact a qualified veterinarian without delay. Provide the following information:
- Species, age, and weight of the pig
- Approximate time of ingestion
- Description of the rodent and any visible residues
- Suspected type of poison, if known
The veterinarian may recommend one or more of the following interventions:
- Induced emesis – only if the ingestion occurred within a short window (usually <2 hours) and the toxin is not corrosive.
- Gastric lavage – performed under professional supervision to remove residual material from the stomach.
- Activated charcoal – administered orally to bind remaining toxins and reduce systemic absorption.
- Specific antidotes – for anticoagulant rodenticides, vitamin K₁ therapy is standard; for metal phosphides, supportive care with oxygen and antioxidants is indicated.
- Intravenous fluid therapy – maintains hydration, supports renal clearance, and mitigates shock.
- Monitoring of blood parameters – coagulation profile, liver enzymes, and electrolyte balance guide ongoing treatment.
Continuous observation is required for at least 48 hours. Record any changes in behavior, appetite, or physiological signs. If symptoms progress, additional diagnostic tests such as radiography or ultrasonography may be warranted to assess organ damage.
Preventive measures should follow the acute episode. Secure all rodent control products in locked containers, use bait stations inaccessible to livestock, and regularly inspect feed storage areas for contamination. Education of farm personnel on safe handling of poisons reduces the likelihood of similar incidents.
In summary, immediate isolation, precise identification of the toxin, prompt veterinary intervention, and comprehensive supportive care constitute the core response to a swine that has ingested a poisoned rodent.