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Cocaine Toxicity in Dogs and Cats

Cocaine Toxicity in Dogs and Cats

Updated On August 21st, 2000

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Reviewed By Petco’s Animal Care, Education and Compliance (ACE) Team

Cocaine is an illegal street drug with a high incidence of abuse. It may be sniffed (snorted) as a powder, smoked, injected, or swallowed. It is available as a hydrochloride salt (coke, snow) or as the free-base form (crack, rock, free-base). Cocaine may contain impurities including other 'caine' anesthetics, caffeine, amphetamine, or quinine which can cause additional complications and side effects. 

Pets may gain exposure by eating bags of cocaine, sniffing the drug, or ingesting or licking drug paraphernalia such as used facial tissues. 

TOXIC DOSE

Varies depending on type and concentration. 

SIGNS

Drooling, dilated pupils, hyperactivity, muscle tremors, increased heart rate, increased respiratory rate, vomiting, seizures, increased body temperature, respiratory depression, coma, and cardiac and respiratory arrest. 

IMMEDIATE ACTION

Contact pet poison control and seek veterinary care immediately. Induce vomiting if pet has eaten a facial tissue or small amount. DO NOT induce vomiting if the pet ingested bag(s) of cocaine since that will increase the risk of a bag breaking.

VETERINARY CARE

General treatment: The cocaine will be removed from the stomach through the induction of vomiting, gastric lavage, endoscopy, or surgery depending on what and how much was ingested. Activated charcoal is administered. 

Supportive treatment: IV fluids, oxygen, and sedation are given, if needed. Heart and lung function are monitored and abnormalities treated. Glucose levels are monitored. Chlorpromazine may be given to reduce some of the symptoms. 

PROGNOSIS

Fair to guarded. 

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27Pet Parents found this article helpful

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