1. Contact your veterinarian immediately.
  2. Your veterinarian may instruct you to induce vomiting, however, do not induce vomiting unless instructed to.
  3. If possible, inform your veterinarian of the type and amount of cocaine ingested.

TOXICITY

MODERATE

Depending on the dose ingested

CLINICAL SIGNS

Cocaine is rapidly absorbed across all mucous membranes so onset of clinical signs is within minutes of exposure.

  • Hyperactivity/agitation
  • Restlessness
  • Panting
  • Vocalisation
  • Dilated pupils (mydriasis)
  • Vomiting
  • Hypersalivation
  • Seizures
  • Death
  • Affected animals are also prone to heat stress

EFFECTS OF TOXICITY

Cocaine causes stimulation of the central and sympathetic nervous systems, causing constriction of blood vessels, an increased heart rate (tachycardia), cardiac arrhythmias and high blood pressure.

TREATMENT

Veterinary treatment may involve sedation and medications to address the rapid heart rate (tachycardia). Activated charcoal can be administered. Intravenous fluids may be required to support the cardiovascular system. Animals should be observed for seizures and anti-seizure medication administered where required.

REFERENCES

aspcapro.org

Gwaltney-Brant (2011) Drugs of abuse. In: Small Animal Toxicology Essentials ed. RH Poppenga and SM Gwaltney-Brant. London: Wiley-Blackwell. Pp226-227.

Macintire DK, Drobatz KJ, Haskins SC, Saxon WD (2006) Toxicologic emergencies. In: Manual of small animal emergency and critical care medicine. Oxford: Blackwell publishing. P390.