Metaldehyde is highly toxic and it only takes as little as one teaspoon to be fatal to a small dog. Cats are just as vulnerable, but this occurs less often as they are generally fussier when it comes to food. Your pet may be drawn to the pellet/granule bait as they usually contain an attractant such as molasses or rice and often resemble dry food biscuits. The liquid or powdered bait form is less likely to cause poisoning, but can be consumed by licking it off their paws.

Snail bait poisoning signs occur rapidly after consumption. Symptoms include; muscle twitching and seizures, loss of co-ordination when walking, an increased heart rate, frothy drooling and vomiting.

If your pet exhibits seizures, seek immediate veterinary attention.  There is no specific ‘antidote’ so treatment involves reducing the amount of poison available. If caught early enough, your veterinarian can induce vomiting and will usually administer activated charcoal to reduce further absorption. If required, the veterinarian can cleanse the stomach and bowel to reduce the amount of poison present and your pet may need to be anaesthetised to control the seizures.

The more information you can give your veterinarian the better. Take note of the colour of the bait, blue, green or brown/yellow and bring the packaging with you as this will provide valuable information to help in the management of your pet.

If you suspect your pet has consumed snail bait, then seek immediate treatment - don’t wait, or it may be too late!