Metaldehyde (slug bait) poisoning: treatment
2-year-old Labrador that had access to granular slug bait in the garden an hour ago. It arrives with severe muscle tremors, hyperaesthesia, hypersalivation, tachycardia and a temperature of 41.6 °C. In the waiting room it starts to seize.
What is the treatment priority?
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A. Control tremors and seizures and cool actively; decontaminate afterwards, with the airway protected
Correct. Benzodiazepines for seizures, methocarbamol for tremors and propofol or general anaesthesia if they persist. The hyperthermia is caused by muscle activity. Once stable, gastric lavage with intubation and activated charcoal, together with fluid therapy.
B. Induce vomiting with apomorphine first
With neurological signs and seizures, inducing vomiting is contraindicated because of the risk of aspiration.
C. Atropine to control the hypersalivation
Metaldehyde is not a cholinergic toxin. Atropine does not treat the tremors and may worsen the tachycardia and hyperthermia.
D. Immerse it in ice water until it reaches 37 °C
Ice water causes peripheral vasoconstriction that hinders heat loss and promotes rebound hypothermia. Cool with tepid water and airflow, and stop at around 39.5 °C.
lightbulb Key takeaway
Metaldehyde signs appear within minutes to hours and can be summarised as 'shake and bake' (tremors and hyperthermia). Watch for complications: rhabdomyolysis with myoglobinuria and kidney injury, disseminated intravascular coagulation and delayed liver damage. The prognosis is good if the tremors are controlled early.
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Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.