Toad Poisoning in Cats

What is toad poisoning?

Toad poisoning occurs when a cat is exposed to the toxins secreted by certain species of toad. In the United States, exposure to most toads causes only mild signs. A cat that licks or ingests these toads will drool, vomit, and have oral irritation.

Two species of toads in the United States can cause severe poisoning: the cane toad and the Colorado River/Sonoran Desert toad. Licking or ingesting one of these toads can cause vomiting, diarrhea, changes in heart rate, abnormal heart rhythms, neurologic signs, and respiratory distress.

The cane toad (Rhinella marina) may also be known as the bufo toad due to its former genus name. The cane toad is typically found in Florida, Texas, Hawaii, Louisiana, and other tropical areas. These toads are very large—between 6 and 9 inches long.

The Colorado River or Sonoran Desert toad (Incilius alvarius) is found in California, New Mexico, Arizona, and Texas. This toad is also very large, growing up to 7.5 inches long.

Although dogs are more likely to be exposed to poisonous toads, cats have also been reported to develop poisoning. Encounters with toads are more common in the rainy season (March-September) when breeding occurs. Toads are most active after a rainfall or during dawn, dusk, and nighttime.

What causes toad poisoning?

Toads secrete toxic substances through glands on their skin. These substances are secreted in higher amounts when the toad feels threatened. When a cat licks or eats a toad, it absorbs these toxic substances through its mouth, open wounds, or other mucous membranes, resulting in poisoning. Toads are poisonous at all stages of life, including the tadpoles and eggs. Even drinking water from a bowl in which a toad was sitting or pond water containing eggs can result in poisoning.

What are the clinical signs of toad poisoning?

Within minutes of licking or ingesting a poisonous toad, drooling, and frothing at the mouth occur. The gums may become very red and signs of pain may be seen, including pawing at the mouth or vocalizing. Vomiting and diarrhea are common. Signs typically progress rapidly to include stumbling, tremors, seizures, abnormal eye movements, difficulty breathing, and abnormal heart rate and rhythm. Without rapid treatment, death may occur.

How is toad poisoning diagnosed?

Most cases of toad poisoning in cats are diagnosed when a cat has the expected signs and a known or suspected exposure to poisonous toads. No specific test is available to confirm toad poisoning.

How is toad poisoning treated?

One of the most important treatments for toad poisoning is immediate flushing of the mouth with large amounts of running water. This flushing can decrease the amount of poison absorbed and the severity of signs. Make sure to rinse the mouth, face, and eyes thoroughly. For your safety, the cat may need to be wrapped in a towel to control its claws. Further treatment will vary depending on the signs that develop, but will include symptomatic and supportive treatment. Surgery or endoscopy may be necessary to remove ingested toads.

What is the prognosis for toad poisoning?

The outcome depends on the species of toad, geographic location of exposure, and how rapidly care is provided. Quick decontamination and treatment are necessary for a good outcome. Severe poisoning is more likely in Florida, where death is common if immediate care is not provided. No long-term effects are expected if the cat survives the initial poisoning.

Pet Poison Helpline, an animal poison control center based out of Minneapolis, MN, is available 24/7 for pet owners and veterinary professionals that require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. The staff provides treatment advice for poisoning cases of all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals, and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline’s per-incident fee includes follow-up consultations for the duration of the poison case. Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.