Slug Pellet (Metaldehyde) Poisoning
in Dogs
Substance: Metaldehyde (found in some slug pellets). Symptoms appear within 30 minutes to 3 hours. Treatment costs £500–£3,000.
Do not wait for symptoms. Call your vet now.
If you suspect your pet has been exposed to metaldehyde (found in some slug pellets), 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 slug pellet (metaldehyde) poisoning typically appear within 30 minutes to 3 hours 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 metaldehyde (found in some slug pellets), follow these steps.
This is a life-threatening emergency — get to a vet immediately
Seizures can start within 30 minutes of ingestion
Do NOT wait for symptoms — call the vet while travelling if needed
Note the brand and active ingredient if possible
Keep your dog cool if they are tremoring or fitting
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 slug pellet (metaldehyde) poisoning in dogs. Total treatment typically costs £500–£3,000.
| Treatment Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Emergency consultation | £80-£250 |
| Sedation/anaesthesia | £150-£500 |
| IV fluids & medication | £150-£400 |
| Intensive care monitoring | £300-£800 |
| Hospitalisation (1-3 nights) | £300-£1,500 |
| Total treatment range | £500–£3,000 |
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
With early, aggressive treatment, survival rates are around 90%. Without treatment, slug pellet poisoning is frequently fatal. Dogs that survive the first 24 hours generally make a full recovery. Liver damage may occur and should be checked with blood tests at a follow-up appointment.
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 slug pellet (metaldehyde) poisoning treatment costing £500–£3,000, insurance can prevent a medical emergency becoming a financial one too. Check your policy covers emergency treatment with no sub-limit on poisoning.
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