Monday, June 13, 2016

Bufo Toad Poisoning

Bufo toad (Bufo marinus) are toads that were introduced to Florida from Central and South America. They are commonly referred to as cane toads. They can become quite large and are notable for their large parotid glands (salivary glands) that secrete a cardio/neurotoxin when attacked.

Dogs are the most common victims and smaller dogs fare worse because of their small size. When a bufo toad is bitten, it secretes a slimy substance from their parotid gland that is very caustic. It instantly causes irritation to the mucous membranes of the mouth and profuse salivation. These signs can progress to crying and pawing at the mouth and face, incoordination and stumbling, vomiting, seizures and death. Pet owners need to be aware of the signs and act decisively and promptly. The most important treatment is to lavage your pet’s mouth vigorously with water. This will reduce the amount of contact with the mucous membranes in the mouth and prevent further ingestion of the poison. There is no antidote for bufo toad poisoning. Treatment is symptomatic  to address the gastrointestinal, neurological, and cardiac signs.

When a person discovers their pet has had exposure to a bufo toad and is showing the signs of profuse salivation, and pawing at the mouth, they should first copiously rinse out the mouth, then seek immediate veterinary care. This most likely will be at a veterinary emergency center because most poisonings occur at dusk when most veterinary hospitals are closed.

Pet owners should be vigilant when letting their pets outside after dark. They should be supervised and any water and food should not be left outside because it will attract the toads.
Bufo toads are non native species that were introduced to Florida. They have thrived and are now found everywhere in south Florida. Pet owners must be aware of this emergent problem and be prepared to act decisively in the event of a bufo toad poisoning.