Rat Poison (Rodenticide) Poisoning
in Dogs
Substance: Anticoagulant rodenticides (brodifacoum, bromadiolone, etc.). Symptoms appear within 2-5 days (symptoms delayed). Treatment costs £300–£2,000.
Do not wait for symptoms. Call your vet now.
If you suspect your pet has been exposed to anticoagulant rodenticides (brodifacoum, bromadiolone, etc.), contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 immediately. The PoisonLine is available 24/7 and run by the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS).
What to Look For
Symptoms of rat poison (rodenticide) poisoning typically appear within 2-5 days (symptoms delayed) of exposure. You may not see all of these — even one or two should prompt an immediate call to your vet.
What to Do Right Now
If you suspect your pet has been exposed to anticoagulant rodenticides (brodifacoum, bromadiolone, etc.), follow these steps.
Call your vet immediately — even if your dog seems fine, symptoms are delayed
Bring the packaging or brand name of the poison if possible
Do NOT wait for bleeding to start — by that point it is an emergency
Keep your dog calm and still to reduce the risk of internal bleeding
Note approximately how much was eaten and when
What the Vet Will Do
Treatment depends on how much was ingested and how quickly you seek help. Here is what to expect.
How Much It Costs
Estimated UK vet costs for treating rat poison (rodenticide) poisoning in dogs. Total treatment typically costs £300–£2,000.
| Treatment Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Emergency consultation | £80-£250 |
| Induced vomiting & charcoal | £80-£200 |
| Vitamin K1 course (4-6 weeks) | £100-£400 |
| Clotting tests (x2-3) | £100-£300 |
| Blood/plasma transfusion | £300-£800 |
| Hospitalisation (if bleeding) | £300-£1,000 |
| Total treatment range | £300–£2,000 |
Prices are estimates based on UK veterinary averages. Out-of-hours emergencies typically cost 1.5–3x more than standard hours. Individual cases vary.
Recovery Outlook
If caught early (before bleeding starts), the prognosis is excellent with Vitamin K1 treatment for 4-6 weeks. If internal bleeding has already begun, the situation is serious and may require transfusions. A clotting test is needed 48 hours after finishing the Vitamin K1 course to confirm the dog is safe.
How to Prevent This
The best treatment is prevention. Keep your pet safe with these steps.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Poisoning?
Yes — most pet insurance policies cover accidental poisoning as an emergency, including out-of-hours care, hospitalisation, and specialist referral.
With rat poison (rodenticide) poisoning treatment costing £300–£2,000, insurance can prevent a medical emergency becoming a financial one too. Check your policy covers emergency treatment with no sub-limit on poisoning.
Compare pet insuranceOther Poisoning Emergencies
Other common toxic substances that affect dogs.
Chocolate Poisoning
SevereIbuprofen & Human Painkiller Poisoning
SevereHuman Medication Ingestion
SevereGrape & Raisin Poisoning
CriticalFind a Vet Near You
Compare vet practices in your area. Check opening hours, emergency availability, and prices before you need them.