Illicit Fentanyl Exposures in Cats and Dogs Reported to a North American Veterinary Poison Control Center From 2019 to 2023.

Abstract

Objectives: As a prominent concern for addiction medicine, illicit fentanyl and its analogues have been implicated in numerous poisonings among people. Many households in Canada and the United States include cats or dogs as pets who may be exposed to substances such as fentanyl.

Methods: This case-series examined data from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals' Poison Control, a 24-hour call center for animal poison-related emergencies. Descriptive statistics were used on records in which cats or dogs had a reported exposure to illicit fentanyl between 2019 and 2023.

Results: The sample included 117 animals (n=4 cats and n=113 dogs). Breeds most identified in this sample were Chihuahuas (n=21) and American Pit Bull Terriers (n=14). Among dogs, the average age was 1.9 (SD=2.8) years and the average weight was 10.5 (SD=11.1) kg. Among cats, the average age was 2.0 (SD=1.2) years and the average weight was 6.0 (SD=2.8) kg. Among dogs, the most reported illicit fentanyl exposure formulation included powder/crystals (n=34; 30.1%). Hypersalivation was reported as a clinical sign for n=2 (50.0%) cats in the sample. The top clinical signs reported among dogs in the sample include lethargy (n=39; 34.5%), vocalization (n=37; 32.7%), and ataxia (n=27; 23.9%).

Conclusions: Impacts of illicit fentanyl and its analogues on society extend to 2 common household animals, cats and dogs. Any potential exposure to illicit fentanyl among cats or dogs should promptly seek emergency veterinarian services for reversal with naloxone and supportive care.