When your animal has chewed or swallowed a tobacco product or licked the liquid from an e-cigarette, I recommend that you contact your local veterinarian urgently. 
Call directly to book an emergency appointment.

Symptoms of poisoning depend on the amount of nicotine consumed by the animal. The nicotine dose obtained from tobacco products is higher when eaten than when smoked. Nicotine poisoning is more common in dogs compared to cats. Dogs and especially puppies like to explore their surroundings by tasting and eating inappropriate things.

Untreated nicotine poisoning can lead to serious, even fatal consequences. The symptoms often appear quickly, around 15 minutes after nicotine intake, and can be:

- Decreased general condition

- Trembling, weakness

- Overactivity

- Irregular pulse

- Increased respiration

- Salivation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea

- Changed pupil size

- Cramps

The amount of nicotine varies from one product to another. Nicotine chewing gum contains less nicotine than a cigarette or a nicotine patch. The e-cigarettes are often problematic as the liquid contains flavorings that can motivate dogs to taste and eat. Nicotine refills can contain large amounts of nicotine.

The veterinary surgeon may decide to prevent further nicotine absorption by inducing vomiting, rinse the dog's stomach and administer activated charcoal. These procedures aim to reduce the amount of nicotine that is available for absorption from the gastrointestinal tract and into your pets body. IV fluid therapy and other medical treatments may help to treat or reduce the signs of toxicity.

Please bring any packaging or information regarding the ingested product to the veterinary surgery. Please book an emergency appointment as soon as possible.