The dangers of antifreeze for cats
Every winter countless cats die from ingesting antifreeze due to the ingredient ethylene glycol which can be fatal. The flavour of the liquid can be appealing to cats and as little as a teaspoonful of antifreeze can harm them. You must take them to a vet immediately as there are no homemade remedies that can help you save your pet’s life.
Antifreeze rapidly absorbs in the cat’s body and the toxicity affects various organs including the kidneys, brain, and liver. Shortly after your cat has drunk antifreeze, they might start experiencing the following symptoms: drooling, vomiting, increased thirst, unwillingness to eat and appearing wobbly/uncoordinated. Depending on the amount of antifreeze they have ingested, and how long ago it was digested, further symptoms may be triggered such as seizures or a lack of urine which indicates that the kidneys are failing.
The best way to prevent antifreeze poisoning is by making sure there are no leaks from your car or antifreeze containers, no spillages and to dispose of the containers safely.
Help with antifreeze poisoning
If you suspect your cat may have drunk antifreeze from a car in the street, get them straight to a vet. Action is required immediately as if left too long the cat will sadly be in the acute and irreversible kidney failure stage and may die.
Cats Protection have some excellent information here
https://www.cats.org.uk/help-and-advice/health/antifreeze-poisoning
If you are unsure, you can call the 24 hr Animal Poison Hotline. For details visit their website here