SNAKE BITES AND PETS
(signs, symptoms and what to do)
Approximately 80% of pets survive snake bite if treated quickly.
The survival rate is much lower however for pets that are left untreated, and death can occur.
Recovery from a snake bite usually takes 24 to 48 hours if the pet receives prompt veterinary attention and the snake bite is not severe.
Cats are twice as likely to survive a venomous snakebite than dogs.
NOTE
If you suspect your pet has been bitten, call your local / 24 hr emergency AHEAD of arrival.
This is to ensure the vet has anti venom serum in stock AND to prepare live saving drugs and equipment.
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Try to keep your pet as still and stable as possible during transport to vet.
Signs and symptoms of snake bites on DOGS
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Collapse followed by apparent recovery
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Lethargy
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Muscle tremors, shaking and reduced eye blinking
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Dilated pupils
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Sudden onset of weakness/wobbliness (ataxia)
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Complete paralysis
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Inability to control bladder and bowels
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Irregular bleeding from the nose, bit site, mouth
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Discoloured, dark urine (often bloody)
​Signs and symptoms of snake bites on CATS
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Puncture wounds and bruising at the bite site (often very difficult to locate)
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Swelling of the face and head
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Weakness in the hindlimbs
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Paralysis
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Disorientation
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Pupil dilation (mydriasis) – the pupils may become fixed
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Excessive salivation
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Vomiting (occasionally with blood)
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Blood in the urine
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Labored breathing
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Coughing (some animals may cough up blood)
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Tremors
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Pale to bluish gums
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Coma
