Nicotine poisoning in a dog

Nicotine poisoning is a rarely reported toxicosis. The clinical signs and symptoms are complex and are mostly of central nervous system derangement. In addition, animals may have hypersalivation, vomiting, diarrhea, tachycardia, tachypnea, hypertension and hyperthermia. Some animals are presented in total collapse with slow and shallow respirations, hypotension, dilated pupils, and a weak, rapid and irregular pulse. Treatment is directed toward removing the unabsorbed poison and diluting, and counteracting or controlling the animal's signs. This report emphasises the comparative ease with which a dog would readily ingest chewing tobacco, which is sweet in taste, and come down with nicotine poisoning, as compared to cigarette tobacco which is nonpalatable and therefore less of a threat. The report further discusses clinical nicotine toxicosis, its incidence, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, prognosis and treatment.