Bufo toads, also known as the cane toad, pose a major threat to animals. Animals can get sick if they interact with a cane toad. But do baby bufo toads pose the same threat as the adult toads do? Let’s find out below:
Are Baby Bufo Toads Dangerous?
The adults are large animals, but the babies typically only reach up to one centimeter long. Bufo toads are poisonous at all stages of life, but the levels of the poison change as they transform. Newly laid eggs are extremely poisonous, but as they become tadpoles and brand-new toads the danger decreases. This is at their most vulnerable and least poisonous state. So, if your pet comes across one and eats it, they should be fine. Once they become adult toads, they start to make their own poison and once again are extremely dangerous.
Where Are Baby Bufo Toads Found?
Adult toads typically come out when it is dark and humid out. Baby toads are out during the day and stay by the edge of ponds and hide in soil cracks. They stay out during the day to avoid being eaten by adult toads and other predators. They dry out quickly so they stay near water but cannot go in because they will drown.
Bufo toads are known to eat dog food and stay near the water bowls. They may stay in the water for a long duration of time and leave behind enough toxins to make a dog sick. Dogs might bite or lick bufo toads, which results in a significant dosage of poison being absorbed quickly. Again, the eggs and adult toads are highly poisonous. The baby bufo toads do not pose that same threat but treat them as if they were just as toxic. When it comes to your pet you would rather be safe than sorry.
Symptoms of Bufo Toads Poisoning
The symptoms of toad poisoning can appear within minutes. Bufo toad poisoning has an extremely high mortality risk if it is not treated properly. Here are some of the common indications of poisoning:
- Frothy saliva
- Breathing difficulties
- Red gums
- Staggers
- Vomiting
- Convulsions
- Seizures
- Irregular heartbeat
Rapid first aid and veterinary hospital care are necessary to ensure survival. Intravenous fluids and medications will be needed to treat your pet. If your pet has licked, eaten, or bit a toad and is showing signs of poisoning immediately contact your veterinarian and Pet Poison Helpline® at (855) 764-7661 to get immediate medical attention.
What To Do If My Pet Came into Contact with a Bufo Toad?
If you suspect that your pet has encountered a bufo toad, you should immediately contact Pet Poison Helpline® and your veterinarian. An important treatment is immediate flushing of the mouth to get rid of the toxins. Wipe the insides of the lips and cheeks, as well as the gums surrounding the teeth, completely.
As the poison works fast and time is of importance, proceed to the nearest veterinary clinic or emergency clinic. The danger of poisoning depends on the size of your pet and toad. Time is of the essence and prevention is key when it comes to bufo toads.
