What happens if a dog licks a toad?
If your dog has licked, chewed, or ingested a cane toad, known as mouthing, the toxin is quickly absorbed through the gums. The toxin can also enter through the eyes, nose, and any open wounds. The effects of this toxin can vary.
Typically, the toxin causes localized irritation to the gums, leading to increased salivation or drooling, which may appear as foaming at the mouth. Your pet might also paw at their mouth due to discomfort. The gums may turn bright red and feel slimy.
Your pet's eyes might dilate, with the pupils appearing larger than usual, and they might experience stiffness in the legs as symptoms progress to more severe signs like muscle tremors or seizures. In the worst cases, sudden death can occur.
It is crucial to seek veterinary assistance immediately, as an average-sized dog can die within 15 minutes of exposure to a large amount of the toxin.
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