Pet Poisoning Treatment: What Your Vet Will Do
Pet poisoning is one of the most common reasons dogs and cats need urgent veterinary care. From chocolate and medications to plants, cleaning products and human foods, accidental exposure is something we see regularly in our practices.
If you suspect your pet has eaten or been exposed to something toxic, it is important to contact your nearest clinic promptly. Many poisoning cases are successfully treated, particularly when advice is sought early. The type of treatment your vet recommends will depend on what toxin was involved, how much your pet ate or was exposed to, and how soon treatment begins.
Why early treatment matters in pet poisoning cases
When it comes to dog and cat poisoning, timing can make a significant difference. Early treatment may prevent further absorption of toxins. Once a substance has entered the bloodstream and started affecting organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys or nervous system, care often needs to be more intensive.
Even if your pet seems well, early assessment at Animal Trust gives your vet more options and can significantly improve the outcome.
Published February 2026 | Review date February 2029 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet
What veterinary treatment will my pet receive for poisoning?
There is no single treatment for poisoning. Every case is assessed individually. When you contact your vet about a suspected poisoning, we will ask:
What your pet has eaten or been exposed to
How much was involved
Your pet’s size and weight
When it happened
Whether any symptoms have developed
This information helps us assess risk and decide on the safest and most effective treatment plan. If possible, keep any packaging, plant samples or product labels, so your vet has as much information as possible.
Common treatments for dog and cat poisoning
Treatment for pet poisoning depends on the toxin involved, but may include one or more of the following:
Making your pet vomit if it is safe to do so. If a toxin has been swallowed recently, your vet may be able to safely induce vomiting to remove it from the stomach before it is absorbed. This is only used in certain cases and within a limited timeframe. It is not safe for all substances, and owners should never attempt to induce vomiting at home.
Activated charcoal: this can help bind toxins that remain in the digestive system, reducing further absorption into the bloodstream.
Intravenous fluids: commonly used in poisoning cases. They help to maintain circulation, support kidney function and aid the body in flushing out toxins.
Monitoring and supportive care: certain toxins affect the heart, nervous system, liver and kidneys. In these cases, your pet may need monitoring of their heart rate and rhythm, blood pressure and temperature. Your vet may need to perform blood tests to see if your pet's organs have been affected by the toxin.
When is intensive veterinary care needed if my pet has been poisoned?
In more serious poisoning cases, pets may require:
Medication to control seizures
Treatment for abnormal heart rhythms
Oxygen
Extended hospital care and monitoring
While this can sound worrying, many pets recover well with prompt veterinary treatment.
What to do if you suspect your pet has eaten or been exposed to something toxic
If you think your dog or cat may have eaten or been exposed to something toxic, contact your nearest Animal Trust Vets, even if your pet appears normal.
Early advice can prevent complications and may reduce the level of treatment required. Our team can assess the risk, advise you on the next steps and provide urgent care where needed. Prompt assessment is always safer than waiting for symptoms to develop.
Treatment for Pet Poisoning Cases: Summary
Pet poisoning is a common veterinary emergency, and many cases have a positive outcome when treated promptly.
Treatment depends on the toxin involved and how quickly veterinary care begins. Options may include inducing vomiting, activated charcoal, intravenous fluids and careful monitoring.
If you are concerned about possible dog or cat poisoning, contact your vet straight away. Early assessment makes a significant difference.
Further reading: Chocolate Poisoning in Dogs Explained