TL;DR: Eating moldy food is a life-threatening emergency for dogs that requires immediate veterinary care to manage neurological toxins. Contact an emergency clinic right away if your dog shows signs of shaking or tremors after ingesting moldy substances.
What is tremorgenic mycotoxicosis and how does it affect my dog?
When a dog consumes moldy food, compost, or trash, they may ingest tremorgenic mycotoxins. These are poisonous compounds produced by certain types of fungi. These toxins specifically target the central nervous system, leading to the muscle tremors, shaking, and potential seizures you are witnessing. It is a serious condition that requires professional medical intervention to manage the neurological effects.
Is it an emergency if my dog eats moldy food and starts shaking?
- Yes, this is a high-urgency emergency. Trembling after eating moldy substances is a clear sign of poisoning that can lead to rapid health decline.
- Contact help immediately. Call an emergency veterinarian or a pet poison control center right away.
- Do not induce vomiting. Do not attempt to induce vomiting at home unless specifically instructed by a professional, as this can lead to aspiration if your dog is showing neurological symptoms.
- Watch for severe complications. These toxins can cause severe seizures, dangerously high body temperature (hyperthermia), and potentially fatal complications.
How can taking a photo of the moldy food help the veterinarian?
- Safely photograph the source. If you can do so safely, take a quick photo of the moldy food or trash your dog ingested.
- Identify the toxin. Showing this photo to the veterinarian helps them identify the potential source of the toxin, as different molds carry different risks.
- Improve the treatment plan. Seeing the type of waste consumed helps the medical team estimate the severity of the exposure and provide a more targeted treatment plan for your pet.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
Following ingestion of moldy trash, dogs may exhibit tremors. If severely symptomatic, stabilization is the priority. Treatment is primarily symptomatic and supportive. Diazepam (0.5-2 mg/kg IV) may be administered as needed to control seizures. Monitor body temperature and provide supportive care. Consider inducing emesis if the ingestion occurred within the previous 20-40 minutes.
Chapter: Toxicology, Emergency
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 3000)