You should seek the advice of your veterinarian if your pet is ill as only he or she can correctly advise on the diagnosis and recommend the treatment that is most appropriate for your pet.

Toads are widely found and direct contact with domesticated species occurs from time to time - unfortunately with some serious consequences.

Toads produce numerous noxious substances on their skin which can cause toxicity in domesticated species, including :

• Indolealkylamines -bufotenine,  serotonin
• Bufagins (bufandienolides), bufotoxins - cardioactive agents that mimic digitalis
• Catecholamines - adrenaline and noradrenaline

Licking the skin of a toad can cause acute signs within a couple of minutes including :

• Salivation
• Retching
• Vomiting
• Conjunctivitis - if toxin gets into the eyes

If a toad (or part of a toad) is eaten the signs are much more serious :

• Collapse
• Difficulty breathing
• Heart abnormalities (abnormal rhythm)
• Seizures (fits)
• Death

It is important to get the effects of the toxins reversed as soon as possible by a veterinarian. 

Treatments may include :

• Emergency support of cardiovascular and respiratory function
• Wash out the mouth with copious amounts of water
• Atropine by intravenous injection to reduce the amount of salivation
• Beta-blockers such as propanolol to stabilise heart rhythm
• Anti-convulsant drugs (eg pentobarbitone) to stop fits

So, owners should discourage dogs and cats from approaching and getting into direct contact with Toads whenever possible.

Updated October 2013