Rat poison is toxic to humans.
Emergency treatment is needed if you mishandle or eat rat poison because it can lead to death.
Contact Poison Controlimmediately and follow their instructions.
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Waiting increases the risk of serious complications.
Call 1-800-222-1222 or use thePoison Control Triage Portalonline.
If someone is unconscious or having difficulty breathing,call 911instead.
Labels on rat poison products always show first aid instructions.
Always read them before you initiate the product just in case you are exposed.
Are All Rat Poisons Equally Dangerous?
It can, however, cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms.
Though it’s very rare,thalliumpoisoning may occur, typically from old rat poison products.
It would take a large dose ofcholecalciferolto cause calcium toxicity (hypercalcemia) in a person.
Cholecalciferol poisoning is far more common in pets than it is in people.
This can ensure the correct treatment is given.
Treatment
Treatment for accidental human ingestion of rat poison may include oral and/orintravenous(IV) medication.
Depending on the specific case, individuals may or may not fully recover and long-term treatment may be needed.
Anticoagulant Rat Poisons
Many rat poisons contain anticoagulants, also known as blood thinners.
To reverse this blood thinning effect, you may be given vitamin K1 therapy through an IV.
Supportive care may include IV fluids and treatments for specific symptoms.Activated charcoalmay be used to calm the gastrointestinal tract.
If you do have to use them, do so with great care.
Place traps behind appliances or other areas that children and pets cannot reach.
you’ve got the option to just place them within 10 to 12 feet of the nest.
It must also be packaged in a tamper-proof bait station.
Other safety tips include the following:
How Much Rat Poison Is Lethal to Dogs?
If your dog or other pet eats rat poison, it’s crucial that you act fast.
It doesn’t take much rat poison to kill a dog.
Just 15-30 mg (only a few granules) is lethal for a dog weighing 15 pounds or less.
For larger dogs, a lethal dose is around 100 mg (1/50th of a teaspoon).
Regardless of how much you believe they ingested, take your dog to the nearest veterinarian right away.
If you’re able to, bring the packaging with you.
If you cannot get to a vet, call theAnimal Poison Control Center immediately at 1-888-426-4435.
Rat poisoning can be lethal, but symptoms don’t always appear right away.
Go to the nearest urgent care or emergency room right away.
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