When it comes to protecting our furry family members, one of the most overlooked but deadly household hazards is antifreeze and other automotive fluids. While they are essential for maintaining vehicles, these substances pose serious risks to cats and dogs, particularly during colder months when antifreeze use is common in North Vancouver and West Vancouver.
At North Care Animal Hospital, our mission is to keep pets safe, healthy, and thriving. Understanding the dangers of antifreeze, recognizing poisoning symptoms, and knowing what to do in an emergency can literally save your pet’s life.
Why Antifreeze is So Dangerous to Pets
Antifreeze, also known as ethylene glycol, is a chemical compound used in radiators and other automotive systems to prevent freezing and overheating. The problem is that ethylene glycol has a sweet taste that appeals to dogs and cats. Even a small amount — less than a teaspoon for a cat or a tablespoon for a dog — can be fatal if not treated immediately.
Other automotive fluids such as brake fluid, windshield washer fluid, transmission fluid, and motor oil may also contain toxic chemicals including methanol, hydrocarbons, or heavy metals. These toxins can cause severe organ failure, neurological issues, and in some cases, death.
How Pets Are Exposed
Pets typically come into contact with antifreeze and other automotive fluids in a few ways:
Garage spills: Leaks or drips from vehicles on the driveway or garage floor.
Improper disposal: Open containers left in the garage, yard, or recycling bins.
Outdoor exposure: Walking through contaminated puddles on the street and then licking their paws.
Inhalation: Strong vapors from chemicals stored in confined spaces can irritate or damage pets’ lungs.
For residents in North Vancouver and West Vancouver, where colder weather increases antifreeze use, the risk is particularly high.
Symptoms of Antifreeze Poisoning in Cats and Dogs
Antifreeze poisoning progresses in stages. Recognizing symptoms early is critical for survival:
| Stage | Timeline | Symptoms | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Within 30 min – 12 hrs | Staggering, drooling, vomiting, excessive thirst, frequent urination | Ethylene glycol absorbed into bloodstream, mimicking alcohol intoxication |
| Stage 2 | 12 – 24 hrs | Increased heart rate, dehydration, lethargy, rapid breathing | Acidic byproducts damage internal organs |
| Stage 3 | 24 – 72 hrs | Seizures, coma, kidney failure, no urine production | Severe, often irreversible organ damage leading to death |
Note: Cats deteriorate faster than dogs. Immediate veterinary care is the only chance for recovery.
What To Do If You Suspect Poisoning
Do not wait for symptoms to worsen.
Call a veterinarian immediately – time is critical.
If you are in North Vancouver, use our Pet Emergency Services for urgent care.
If you’re nearby, you can access our Walk-In Vet Services — no appointment required.
If you cannot leave home, consider our In-Home Veterinary Services where a mobile vet can come to you.
Never attempt home remedies such as inducing vomiting without professional guidance. Antifreeze poisoning requires antidote therapy (fomepizole or ethanol), IV fluids, and in severe cases, dialysis.
Treatment Options at North Care Animal Hospital
At North Care Animal Hospital in North Vancouver and our West Vancouver location, our experienced team led by Dr. Ali Sadaghdar and Dr. Farhang Farhadi provide comprehensive emergency care including:
Rapid diagnostics with in-house blood and urine testing.
Antidote administration to block ethylene glycol metabolism.
IV fluid therapy to support kidney function.
Continuous monitoring of blood chemistry and vital signs.
Post-treatment care to prevent long-term kidney damage.
Our hospital is open 7 days a week, 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM, ensuring that local pet owners always have access to urgent care.
How to Prevent Antifreeze and Automotive Fluid Poisoning
Prevention is always better than emergency treatment. Pet owners in North Vancouver and West Vancouver can follow these safety measures:
Store chemicals safely: Keep all automotive fluids in sealed, pet-proof containers.
Clean spills immediately: Even a few drops of antifreeze can attract and poison your pet.
Check vehicles regularly: Repair radiator or brake fluid leaks without delay.
Use pet-safe alternatives: Some antifreeze products use propylene glycol which is safer (though still not completely non-toxic).
Avoid letting pets roam unsupervised: Outdoor pets are at higher risk of accidental exposure.
Why Choose North Care Animal Hospital for Emergency Pet Care
When your pet’s health is on the line, every minute matters. At North Care Animal Hospital, we provide:
Accessible walk-in services – no waiting for an appointment.
24/7 emergency preparedness with extended working hours.
Mobile in-home veterinary services for stress-free care.
Highly qualified doctors like Dr. Ali Sadaghdar and Dr. Farhang Farhadi with years of veterinary expertise.
Trusted local presence in both North Vancouver and West Vancouver.
We combine compassionate care with state-of-the-art diagnostics and treatments, ensuring the best possible outcome for your pet.
Final Thoughts
Antifreeze and automotive fluids are silent but deadly threats to cats and dogs. Awareness, prevention, and fast veterinary response are the keys to saving lives. If you suspect exposure, contact us immediately or bring your pet to our clinic.
📍 Contact Us
North Care Animal Hospital
1061 Marine Drive, Unit #101
North Vancouver, BC V7P 1S6
📞 Tel: 604-984-1464
📧 Email: Northcareanimalhospital@gmail.com
🕗 Hours: Open 7 days a week, 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Your pet’s safety is our priority. Don’t wait — act fast when it matters most.