Toxic pneumonitis caused by inhalation of hydrocarbon waterproofing spray in two dogs

Abstract

The dogs of this report developed hydrocarbon pneumonitis following exposure to waterproofing sprays. Such sprays contain potentially toxic hydrocarbons. The severity of the adverse effects associated with exposure may have been amplified because the dogs were physically small and were exposed to a relatively large amount of aerosolized spray within small areas. Development of chemical pneumonitis in pet animals is best prevented by application of waterproofing sprays in well-ventilated or outdoor areas from which pets have been excluded. With prolonged hospitalization and considerable monitoring and care, affected dogs can recover from these exposures.

Successful treatment of canine acute respiratory distress syndrome secondary to inhalant toxin exposure

“…Hydrocarbons, as a group, are known to be directly irritant to the pulmonary tract, reducing surfactant levels, promoting pulmonary inflammation, bronchospasm, pulmonary edema, and necrosis; the net effects of these is reduced pulmonary compliance, hypoxemia, and in some cases ARDS . The case presented in this report bears numerous similarities to previously reported chemical pneumonitis in 2 dogs following hydrocarbon inhalation with respect to the temporal relationship of toxic exposure, clinical deterioration over the first 24–72 hours, and subsequent complete recovery. Pneumonitis is likely part of the same spectrum of disease as ARDS and the dogs reported previously by Young et al may have had VetARDS.…”

“…Veterinary acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome is a rare clinical entity with only sporadic reports in the veterinary literature of successful management in dogs; however, inhalant toxins (including the compounds outlined in this report) other than smoke have not been documented as a cause for VetARDS . A previously published case series describes 2 dogs that developed chemical pneumonitis secondary to inhalation of a waterproofing spray containing hydrocarbons . Both dogs recovered with supportive care; however, neither dog was definitively diagnosed with VetARDS due to a lack of arterial blood gas sampling.…”

Emesis in dogs: a review

“…The remaining publications are either review articles or pertain to single case reports or small case series where nutritional support is employed as a component of therapy for patients with severe gastrointestinal signs (Aroch and others 1997 [4c], Holland 1996 [4c], Young and others 2007 [4c]). Such information suggests that early enteral nutrition is of benefit, but should be interpreted with caution.…”

Severe respiratory signs in two cats following the inhalation of a footwear proofing aerosol

“…1,2 Toxic pneumonitis caused by inhalation of a waterproofing agent has been reported in two dogs. 3 A literature search reveals no reports of exposure in cats.…”