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Once swallowed anticoagulants are absorbed from the gut
which then act by inhibiting the production of Vitamin K
which in turn reduces the blood's ability to clot. Clinical
effects therefore include bleeding from the nose, gums and
bowel. Bruises can be apparent on the skin. Anaemia, lethargy
and innapetance are all common symptoms.In the most severe
cases this can lead to circulatory collapse and death.If
treatment is to be successful it is important that it is
started as soon as possible.
Fortunately for "Tilly", her owners were quickly
aware of the consequences of her "tasty treat"
and immediately rushed her to our surgery having the good
sense to bring the container so that the specific toxin
could be identified.
"Tilly" seemed quite bewildered by all the fuss
over a simple snack! Since our practice is registered with
the Veterinary Poisons Unit invaluable information is made
available over the phone regarding the best treatment to
be instituted and the likely outcome.
"Tilly" was not showing any clinical signs on
admission and Vitamin K was administered to maintain her
blood's ability to clot. This easily administered antidote
would then sustain her until the toxin had been successfully
metabolised. Yet another successful outcome to add to the
statistics!
By contrast, in humans paracetamol continues to generate
the greatest number of emergency inquiries of any single
agent, and it constitutes 48% of hospital admissions for
poisoning in the United Kingdom. And the most common cause
of death by poisoning in humans is carbon monoxide.......bear
that in mind when you switch your gas boiler on this winter!!
Terry
Dunne BVMS, Cert SAO, MRCVS
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