When we think about household dangers to pets, chocolate, grapes, or onions usually come to mind. However, antifreeze (ethylene glycol) remains one of the most lethal and overlooked toxins for dogs and cats. Just a few drops can cause irreversible kidney damage, and many pet owners don’t realize how common and deadly this hazard is in British Columbia homes and driveways.
At North Care Animal Hospital, serving North Vancouver and West Vancouver, we see antifreeze poisoning cases every winter and spring. Understanding the risks, early symptoms, and immediate response steps can save your pet’s life.
Why Antifreeze Is So Dangerous
Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, a sweet-tasting but highly toxic chemical. Pets are attracted to the smell and taste, often licking it off garage floors, driveways, or even car parts. Unfortunately, their bodies metabolize ethylene glycol into toxic byproducts (glycolic acid, oxalic acid) that attack the kidneys and central nervous system.
How Little Is Fatal?
Dogs: As little as 5 mL per kilogram of body weight can be deadly.
Cats: Just 1.5 mL per kilogram can be fatal — that’s less than a teaspoon for an average cat.
Common Sources of Antifreeze Around the Home
Even if you don’t keep bottles of antifreeze openly stored, there are many hidden risks:
| Source | Risk Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Leaking car radiators | High | Puddles under cars often contain antifreeze |
| Spilled antifreeze during car maintenance | High | Even small spills are lethal |
| Toilet bowl additives (winterizing fluid) | Medium | Cats often lick toilet water |
| Decorative snow globes (some contain EG) | Medium | Breakage can expose liquid |
| Improper storage containers | High | Pets chew or lick bottles left open |
Symptoms of Antifreeze Poisoning in Pets
Signs of ethylene glycol poisoning progress rapidly. The earlier you recognize them, the better your pet’s chances of survival.
First 30 minutes – 12 hours:
Staggering or uncoordinated movement (ataxia)
Vomiting
Excessive drooling
Seizures
Excessive thirst and urination
12 – 24 hours:
Lethargy
Rapid breathing
Increased heart rate
Dehydration
24 – 72 hours:
Acute kidney failure (no urination, swelling, depression)
Coma
Death without treatment
What To Do If You Suspect Antifreeze Poisoning
Do not wait. Even a few hours can mean the difference between life and death.
Do not induce vomiting unless explicitly instructed by a veterinarian.
Bring the packaging or a sample of the substance if possible — it helps the vet confirm diagnosis and treatment.
Seek emergency care immediately. At North Care Animal Hospital’s Emergency Services, we provide fast and reliable critical care in North Vancouver.
Veterinary Diagnosis & Treatment
When your pet arrives at our hospital, our experienced veterinarians — Dr. Ali Sadaghdar and Dr. Farhang Farhadi — will conduct:
Blood and urine tests to detect metabolites
Ultrasound or imaging if kidney involvement is suspected
IV therapy and antidotes such as fomepizole (4-MP) or ethanol, which block toxic metabolism
Aggressive fluid therapy to flush toxins and support kidneys
Prompt treatment within the first 8–12 hours in dogs, or 3–6 hours in cats, is critical. After this window, the prognosis declines sharply.
Preventing Antifreeze Poisoning
Prevention is always better than treatment:
Use propylene glycol–based antifreeze, which is safer though not completely non-toxic.
Immediately clean spills and wash the area with water.
Store antifreeze containers sealed and out of reach.
Do regular garage and driveway checks, especially in colder months.
Train pets not to lick puddles outdoors.
Why Local Pet Owners Trust North Care Animal Hospital
At North Care Animal Hospital, we combine urgent care expertise with compassionate service. Whether you need walk-in vet services, in-home veterinary care, or full emergency intervention, our team is here seven days a week.
We serve both North Vancouver and West Vancouver communities with extended hours (8:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily), so your pet is never without care when it matters most.
Contact us immediately if you suspect antifreeze poisoning:
📍 1061 Marine Drive, Unit #101, North Vancouver, BC V7P 1S6
📞 604-984-1464
✉️ northcareanimalhospital@gmail.com
Final Thoughts
Antifreeze poisoning is one of the most preventable yet deadly pet emergencies. By recognizing symptoms early, storing chemicals safely, and seeking veterinary help immediately, you can save your cat or dog’s life.
Your pet deserves the highest level of care. At North Care Animal Hospital, our mission is to protect the health and happiness of your furry family members.