The antifreeze and engine coolant we use for our cars contains ethylene glycol. This chemical is toxic and particularly dangerous to animals and children because it has a sweet taste and smell. As little as a teaspoon can kill an adult cat, and according to the Humane Society Legislative Fund, as many as 90,000 animals are poisoned per year as a result of ingesting ethylene glycol.
Last month, the Humane Society Legislative Fund and the Consumer Specialty Products Association announced that all antifreeze and engine coolant produced in the United States for sale direct to consumers will contain the bitter chemical denatonium benzoate. Companies that produce the automotive products will now be adding the flavoring agent voluntarily.
Massachusetts and 16 other states had already passed legislation that required the addition of bittering agent to engine coolant and antifreeze sold to consumers, so nothing will be changing for us here on Cape Cod.
Some argue that most antifreeze spills are from products sold wholesale to automotive shops. Currently, most wholesale products do not contain the bitter flavoring agent, so there is still a risk that pets will be poisoned by a puddle in the driveway or garage. In Massachusetts, there is a movement to include wholesale products in the legislation.
If you suspect that your pet has ingested antifreeze, it is important to seek veterinary treatment as soon as possible. The sooner they receive treatment, the better their chances of survival.
