Mouthing or biting cane toads and certain other toads exposes pets to bufotoxins, cardiac glycoside-like compounds secreted from the toad's skin. Effects range from profuse drooling and red mucous membranes to cardiac arrhythmias and seizures. Severity depends on toad species and exposure.
Cane toad toxicosis follows contact with the skin secretions of toads such as Rhinella marina. The bufadienolide toxins act like cardiac glycosides and irritate mucous membranes.
Licking, mouthing, or biting a toad, common in dogs in tropical and subtropical regions. Smaller native toads cause milder signs.
Immediate profuse drooling, head shaking, bright red gums, and pawing at the mouth, progressing in serious cases to vomiting, disorientation, cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, and collapse.
History of toad contact with the characteristic oral irritation and, in severe cases, arrhythmias on examination.
Immediately rinse the mouth forward with running water for several minutes, then provide cardiac and seizure control, temperature management, and supportive care. Prompt mouth rinsing greatly improves outcomes.
Supervise pets outdoors at dawn, dusk, and after rain when toads are active, and remove toads from yards.
This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your veterinarian.
