Trends and Patterns of Animal Poisoning in Thailand: A 10-Year Retrospective Study from Ramathibodi Poison Center

Abstract

Animal poisoning remains an underreported public health and veterinary concern in many low- and middle-income countries where comprehensive surveillance systems are limited. This study was initiated to describe the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of animal poisoning cases reported to a national poison center in Thailand over a 10-year period. We performed a retrospective review of cases recorded in the Ramathibodi Poison Center Toxic Exposure Surveillance System between 2015 and 2024. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize species distribution, exposure categories, clinical signs, treatment, and outcomes, and comparisons were conducted to identify factors associated with mortality. A total of 118 poisoning cases were identified, with annual numbers increasing over time. Companion animals accounted for most exposures (93.2%), particularly dogs. Pesticides were the most common toxic agents, followed by household products, pharmaceuticals, and plant toxins. Neurological signs were the predominant clinical presentation. Respiratory compromise and neurological involvement at presentation were significantly associated with mortality. Overall survival was 88.1%. Fatalities were mainly linked to exposure to highly toxic pesticides or plants, including confirmed cassava-associated cyanide poisoning in elephants. This study highlights preventable environmental toxic risks affecting animals in Thailand and demonstrates the value of centralized poison surveillance. Strengthening pesticide safety practices and integrating veterinary toxicology into broader public health monitoring may reduce avoidable poisonings within shared human–animal environments.