Chemotherapy is usually used to treat cancer and some other diseases in humans, since it is aimed at rapid inhibition of growth and division of tumor cells. Chemotherapy also often used in various autoimmune disorders, and with organ transplantation.
Chemotherapy drugs can be both synthetic and semi-synthetic and natural substances, they are administered either intravenously or orally.
How safe is chemotherapy for dogs and cats?
Contents
In pets, the use of certain antitumor drugs may be generally safe.
- Some of the drugs, such as prednisone or cyclosporine, in most cases are safe enough – although if you learned that the dog or cat ate them yourself, you must inform your veterinarian immediately.
- Many other medicines, such as methotrexate, can cause animal serious problems
- Attention! An animal can have very serious or even fatal symptoms if it swallows the pills it needs chew. Contact your veterinarian immediately if this is occurred!
Why are chemotherapy drugs poisonous for dogs and cats?
The goal of these drugs is to suppress the growth of cancer cells. Therefore, if an animal swallows a drug, it may some health symptoms may develop:
- lethargy
- depression
- salivation and nausea
- lack of appetite
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- stomach ache
- immune suppression
- anemia
- liver damage
- acute renal failure
- ataxia (lack of muscle coordination)
- disorientation
- cramps
- blindness
- death
How many anticancer drugs is poisonous to cat or dog?
It depends on the type of drug, dose and size of the animal.
What are the symptoms of poisoning in dogs and cats? with chemotherapy?
Symptoms may develop from 30 minutes to several hours and days after application. These may include:
- lethargy and depression
- anorexia and lack of appetite
- vomit
- diarrhea
- disorientation when walking or standing
- tremors and cramps
- weakness
- blood in urine
Is there an antidote for poisoning in dogs and cats?
Although there is no direct antidote to drugs with chemotherapy, there are some types of medications that can help in restoration of bone marrow and other body functions.
How to treat poisoning with chemotherapy?
Your veterinarian must ensure you are fast and aggressive. treatment to prevent the development of serious problems. For this may be required:
- vomiting challenge
- use of activated carbon
- blood analysis
- supportive care
- hospitalization
- blood transfusion, etc.
IMPORTANT! For any poisoning of a pet, immediately consult your veterinarian for specialist intervention. The faster you react, the better your chances of success. cure!
