Moldy Food and Neurotoxicity in Dogs
Spoiled or moldy foods, including compost, trash, or forgotten leftovers, can grow certain molds that produce tremorgenic mycotoxins. These toxins affect the nervous system and can lead to severe, rapid-onset signs in dogs.
Dogs most often encounter these toxins when they get into the garbage, compost piles, or outdoor food waste. Even small amounts can cause dangerous reactions.
Why Is It Dangerous?
Tremorgenic mycotoxins cause abnormal nerve signaling in the brain and spinal cord, leading to tremors, seizures, and high body temperature. These symptoms can develop rapidly within 30 minutes to a few hours of ingestion and progress quickly.
Who’s Most at Risk?
Dogs with free access to garbage or compost (outdoor pets, farm dogs)
Small dogs, where even small amounts cause toxicity
Dogs with preexisting neurologic conditions
Signs of Moldy Food Toxicity
Symptoms may include:
Tremors or muscle twitching
Seizures
Agitation or restlessness
High body temperature (from constant muscle activity)
Vomiting or diarrhea (if food waste was recently ingested)
What To Do If Your Dog Eats Moldy Food
Do not wait for symptoms — treat any ingestion of moldy food as an emergency.
Never induce vomiting at home unless specifically directed by a veterinarian or poison control.
Call your Animal Poison Control immediate
ASPCA Poison Control: 888-426-4435
Often pet families are not aware their dog ingested moldy food and only notice sudden neurologic signs. If there is any chance of exposure, report this to your veterinarian and Animal Poison Control so as not to delay appropriate treatment.
What to Expect at the Vet
Treatment for moldy food toxicity often requires hospitalization and intensive care. At the clinic, your dog may receive:
Intravenous fluids to maintain hydration and support the body’s systems
Muscle relaxants to control tremors
Anticonvulsant medications to stop seizures
Temperature monitoring and cooling if body heat rises from muscle activity
Activated charcoal or gastric decontamination if ingestion was recent and safe to perform
Recovery time can vary from hours to days, depending on the severity of signs and how quickly treatment begins.
Prevention Tips
Secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids.
Keep compost piles fenced off or covered.
Discard spoiled food safely where pets cannot reach it.
Final Thoughts
Moldy food isn’t just unappetizing — it’s a potential neurotoxin for dogs. Quick action and immediate veterinary care are critical to prevent lasting harm. Always secure food waste and know where to call in an emergency: (888) 426-4435.
Dr. Gal Chivvis
