1. Look for Signs of Poisoning
The early stage of antifreeze poisoning involves symptoms similar to alcoholic intoxication. Your pet may stumble or weave when he moves, exhibit a lack of coordination or vomit excessively. He may also appear depressed and lethargic, whining or complaining and refusing to move from his spot. This behavior stems from the animal's digestive system absorbing the ethylene glycol in the antifreeze. It usually appears within 1 to 12 hours of the antifreeze poisoning. When symptoms appear, take your pet to the veterinarian immediately.
2. Watch for Increased Thirst and Excessive Urination
In addition to appearing intoxicated, the pet will want to drink an excessive amount of water during the first twelve hours after swallowing the antifreeze. She will quickly drain her bowl and seek out water in the toilet bowl or elsewhere--even if she knows he's not supposed to drink there. At the same time, she'll pass the water he absorbs very quickly and urinate excessively. These signs will vanish after about 12 hours, but that's not good news. It means the animal's kidneys are failing and are no longer able to process urine.
3. Use a Wood's Lamp to Examine the Pet's Urine
Some antifreeze products contain fluorescein to detect leaks in the radiator (it's the chemical that makes it appear to glow). Check the package to see if it contains fluorescein, and then examine the pet's urine under a Wood's lamp. If he's ingested the antifreeze, his urine will glow a bright green under the lamp.
4. Look for Rapid Breathing or Rapid Heart Rate
As the antifreeze poison moves through the animal's system, it will begin interfering with vital organs like the liver and kidneys. The animal will appear lethargic and depressed. Her heart rate will become very rapid and her breathing will be quick and shallow. This usually takes place 12 to 24 hours after ingesting the poison. If not treated, the animal will slip into a coma and die within a few hours.
5. Have a Vet Perform an Ultrasound
An ultrasound can determine damage to the kidneys or liver caused by the antifreeze and see how far the antifreeze poisoning has progressed. Once your vet determines that, he can move forward with any treatments or remedies.
