Antifreeze toxicity in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
LMV
MSc
Reviewed by Dr. Jennifer Macindoe
✔ MRCVS
BVMS
Updated February 27, 2026
4 min read

What is

Symptoms

Risk

Diagnosis

Treatment

How to help at home

Prevention

When to worry

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Antifreeze toxicity in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
LMV
MSc
Reviewed by Dr. Jennifer Macindoe
✔ MRCVS
BVMS
Updated February 27, 2026
4 min read

Antifreeze is extremely toxic to cats. Ingesting small amounts, like a teaspoon, can lead to severe kidney damage and death. If you think your cat has ingested antifreeze, take them to see a vet immediately.   

The antifreeze toxin is called ethylene glycol. It is most often used in radiator fluid, but may also be present in some windshield de-icing products, motor oil, brake fluid, paints or solvents. Unfortunately, it has a somewhat pleasant taste, so many cats will drink it if they find it. Initially, it causes symptoms similar to being drunk (alcohol poisoning). If the cat recovers from these initial symptoms, they often develop signs of severe kidney disease within 24 hours. Immediate intensive care is needed to prevent this from happening or support recovery if possible.

What is antifreeze toxicity in cats? >What is antifreeze toxicity in cats? [What is


Symptoms of antifreeze toxicity in cats >
Symptoms of antifreeze toxicity in cats [Symptoms


Cats at a higher risk for antifreeze toxicity >
Cats at a higher risk for antifreeze toxicity [Risk


Diagnosis of antifreeze toxicity in cats >
Diagnosis of antifreeze toxicity in cats [Diagnosis


Veterinary treatment of antifreeze toxicity in cats >
Veterinary treatment of antifreeze toxicity in cats [Treatment


Home treatment of antifreeze toxicity in cats >
Home treatment of antifreeze toxicity in cats [How to help at home


Prevention of antifreeze toxicity in cats >
Prevention of antifreeze toxicity in cats [Prevention


When to worry about antifreeze toxicity in cats >
When to worry about antifreeze toxicity in cats [When to worry

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