Pet Toxin Reference

Windshield Washer Fluid / Methanol

Severe
Dogs, Cats
Often within hours
Methanol
Act now: Remove access immediately. Save the package, label, or plant photo. Call your veterinarian or a poison service right away; do not wait for symptoms. Go to an emergency clinic immediately if any signs are present or if a large/known exposure occurred.
Related Toxins

Quick Facts

Common Sources
Windshield washer fluid, some automotive products
Highest Risk
Concentrated forms or large ingestions pose highest risk
Category
Household
Early Signs
Vomiting, wobbliness, sleepiness
Emergency Signs
Severe depression, breathing problems, collapse
Call Your Vet
Call as soon as exposure is suspected, even if your pet seems normal.

Triage & Next Steps

Why this is dangerous
Methanol is a toxic alcohol that can cause brain depression and metabolic injury.
Go to ER immediately if
Go now for collapse, repeated vomiting, tremors, seizures, trouble breathing, marked weakness, severe drooling, pale gums, trouble urinating, or any rapidly worsening signs.
What not to do
Do not induce vomiting, give milk/oil/bread, or try home remedies unless a veterinarian specifically tells you to.
Prevention
Store products sealed and up high, clean spills quickly, keep pets out of treated areas until dry/safe, and leave original labels on containers.

This tool provides rapid educational guidance and is not a substitute for direct veterinary advice. If exposure is suspected, contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic promptly.

Reviewed by
Andrew Rocco, DVM

Dr. Rocco is a practicing small animal veterinarian with experience in emergency and urgent care medicine. PetToxin.com was built to give pet owners clear, evidence-based information about common toxin exposures.