Rat bait might be a convenient solution for rodent problems, but for our pets, it’s an incredibly dangerous toxin. At our Animal Emergency Service hospitals, we see too many cases of accidental poisoning caused by rodenticides—often because dogs and cats are naturally curious and can’t resist investigating unfamiliar smells or tastes.
Even small amounts of rat bait can cause life-threatening illness, so knowing the risks, signs, and what to do in an emergency is essential for every pet owner.
What Is Rat Bait (Rodenticide)?
Rodenticides are poisons designed to kill rats and mice, but unfortunately, they can be just as deadly for dogs and cats. These baits are often flavoured to attract rodents—which means they can also attract your pet.
There are several types of rat bait, and each acts in a different way:
1. Anticoagulant Rodenticides
These are the most commonly used and work by preventing blood from clotting. After ingestion, internal bleeding can occur over several days—often without obvious signs at first.
Common ingredients: warfarin, brodifacoum, bromadiolone.
Symptoms to watch for:
- Lethargy or weakness
- Pale gums
- Bruising or bleeding (from the nose, gums, urine, or faeces)
- Coughing or laboured breathing (from bleeding into the chest)
- Collapse or sudden death in severe cases
2. Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) Baits
These are increasingly used and extremely toxic. They cause a dangerous rise in calcium levels, leading to kidney failure.
Signs include:
- Vomiting
- Increased thirst and urination
- Loss of appetite
- Weakness or lethargy
- Kidney damage or failure
3. Neurotoxic Rodenticides (e.g. bromethalin)
Less commonly used in Australia but very dangerous. These act on the brain and nervous system, causing swelling and neurological symptoms.
Signs include:
- Muscle tremors or twitching
- Incoordination\
- Seizures or paralysis
- Increased sensitivity to touch or sound
How Do Pets Get Exposed?
Direct ingestion of the bait itself (often placed in accessible garages, sheds, or gardens)- Ingesting a poisoned rodent (secondary poisoning—especially with cats or dogs that hunt)
- Sniffing out bait boxes or crumbs left behind during pest control efforts
Direct ingestion of the bait itself (often placed in accessible garages, sheds, or gardens)What to Do If You Suspect Poisoning
If you suspect your pet has ingested rat bait or snail bait, every second counts. The earlier treatment begins, the better the chances of survival and full recovery. Here’s what to do—and what not to do.
DO:
1. Stay calm—but act fast. Time is critical. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—some toxins act slowly, while others can trigger rapid deterioration.
2. Call your nearest emergency veterinary hospital immediately. Let them know you’re on your way and what the suspected poison is. If you’re unsure which hospital to call, you can find all AES locations here.
3. Bring the bait packaging or product label if possible. Knowing the specific type of bait (and active ingredient) helps your vet choose the most effective treatment.
4. Safely remove any remaining bait from your pet’s access. If there’s any leftover bait in your home, garden, or on your pet’s fur, remove it or isolate your pet from the area. Use gloves if necessary.
5. Keep your pet as calm and quiet as possible. Try to limit their movement to reduce stress on their body—especially if they’re showing signs of bleeding, tremors, or uncoordinated movement.
DO NOT:
- Do NOT wait for symptoms. Some baits (especially anticoagulants) may take hours or days to show clinical signs, but damage can begin immediately.
- Do NOT attempt to induce vomiting at home. While inducing vomiting can sometimes help, doing it incorrectly can cause aspiration (inhaling vomit into the lungs), worsen symptoms, or lead to further complications. This should only be done under veterinary guidance.
- Do NOT give any food, water, milk, or home remedies. These won’t neutralise the poison and could delay more effective treatment.
- Do NOT assume your pet is fine because they “seem normal.” Always err on the side of caution. If there’s any chance they’ve ingested a toxic substance, they need immediate veterinary assessment—even if they appear unaffected at first.
Prevention Tips for Pet Owners
Avoid using rat bait at home, especially in areas pets can access—even indirectly.- Use pet-safe rodent control options, such as snap traps in sealed boxes or ultrasonic deterrents.
- Inform pest control services that pets are present on the property and ask about safe alternatives.
- Keep bait locked away and never store it in accessible cupboards, bags, or sheds.
- Supervise pets outdoors, especially in areas where rodent bait might be present (parks, farms, neighbours’ gardens).
Avoid using rat bait at home, especially in areas pets can access—even indirectly.Final Thoughts
Rat bait may seem like a convenient solution to a pest problem, but when pets are around, the risks far outweigh the benefits. Every year, thousands of Australian pets become critically ill from rodenticide poisoning—and many cases are preventable.
At Animal Emergency Service, we’re here to support you with advice, emergency care, and long-term health monitoring. If you are concerned that your pet may have ingested any kind of rat poison, get in touch—we’re here to help.