A leading veterinary nurse has issued a critical safety alert to pet owners across the UK, highlighting the extreme danger posed by a common winter product. As temperatures plummet, the use of antifreeze and de-icers containing a specific chemical can have fatal consequences for cats and dogs, even from tiny amounts.
The Sweet-Tasting Toxin: Why Ethylene Glycol is So Deadly
The warning centres on ethylene glycol, a key ingredient in many vehicle antifreeze and screenwash solutions. Jade, a vet nurse with over 206,600 followers on TikTok where she shares pet care advice, stressed the severe risk. "It's absolutely freezing, and I just want to remind you guys that products containing ethylene glycol are highly toxic to cats," she stated in a recent video.
This clear, viscous liquid has a sweet taste that unfortunately attracts animals, particularly cats. The lethal dose for an average cat is shockingly small – just one to two teaspoons. For dogs and other pets, it is also highly poisonous. Upon ingestion, ethylene glycol causes rapid and severe kidney damage, with the RSPCA confirming that it can kill cats within a mere 24 hours.
Beyond the Bottle: Hidden Dangers in Puddles and Spills
The threat isn't limited to direct ingestion from a container. Jade explained that when used on cars, antifreeze can run off and contaminate puddles or gutters. "And [if the cats] drink out of the puddle, they can also get toxicity through there as well," she warned. This makes the hazard pervasive in residential areas and car parks during cold snaps.
Jade's primary recommendation is to avoid products containing ethylene glycol altogether if possible, opting for a simple ice scraper instead. She acknowledges the extra few minutes it may take to defrost a car but emphasises that this choice could save a life.
RSPCA's Vital Advice for Pet Owners
The RSPCA, which records pet deaths from antifreeze poisoning annually, asserts most incidents are preventable. They urge owners to take the following steps:
- Regularly check your vehicle for coolant leaks.
- Store, use, and dispose of antifreeze and coolant with extreme care, ensuring pets cannot access them.
- Clean up any spillage immediately, no matter how small, and prevent animal access until the area is completely safe.
- Dispose of hazardous products responsibly by contacting your local authority for guidance.
For outdoor cats, complete protection is challenging. Jade advises keeping cats indoors during very cold weather when antifreeze use is prevalent. Where this isn't feasible, vigilance for symptoms is crucial.
Watch for signs of poisoning including vomiting, seizures, collapse, or increased drinking. Immediate veterinary attention is essential, and treatment must be sought within 12 hours of exposure to have the best chance of saving the animal.
With the UK in the grip of winter, this warning serves as a timely reminder for all pet owners to scrutinise their winter products and adopt safer practices to protect beloved animals from a preventable tragedy.
