Chapter 5 - Epidemiology of animal poisonings

Abstract

Demographic information on animal poisonings has largely come from human or animal poison control centers that animal owners have contacted regarding potential exposures to toxic agents or from surveys of veterinary emergency centers or teaching hospitals. Although animals are exposed to potentially toxic agents on a daily basis, actual poisoning cases are uncommon when compared to other conditions of veterinary concern. Poisonings are a serious cause of morbidity and mortality in animals, particularly in dogs and cats. Based on information obtained by veterinary clinics and human and animal poison control centers, the incidence of animal poisoning does not appear to be waning, although the agents to which animals are exposed does change with time. Although significant pesticide exposures may be on the decline due to the development of newer and less toxic pesticides, exposures to other agents, such as chocolate and pharmaceutical agents, may be on the rise. Knowledge of the most common features of animal poisonings can aid in instituting measure that may help in minimizing exposures of animals to toxicants.