Rainy Season Brings Toxic Toads

Rainy Season & Bufo Toads in Hawai'i: What Pet Owners Should Know

During Hawai'i’s rainy season, Bufo toads (cane toads) become more active and are more commonly encountered in yards, parks, and neighborhoods—especially at night. These toads pose a serious risk to pets, particularly dogs, if licked, mouthed, or bitten.

Bufo toads secrete a potent toxin from glands on their skin. Even brief contact with a pet’s mouth can result in rapid poisoning.

Signs of Bufo Toad Toxicity in Pets

Symptoms can appear within minutes and may include:

• Excessive drooling or foaming

• Pawing at the mouth or face

• Red or irritated gums

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Disorientation or weakness

• Tremors or seizures

• Irregular heartbeat or collapse

In many cases this is a medical emergency!

What Your Veterinarian Recommends: Immediate First Aid

If you believe your pet has had contact with a Bufo toad:

1. Rinse the Mouth Immediately

• Use copious amounts of clean water

• Gently flush from side to side, allowing water to drain out

• Do not force water down the throat

2. Protect Yourself

• Wear gloves if available

• Avoid touching your own eyes or mouth

3. Do NOT Use Chemicals

• Do not use soap, hydrogen peroxide, or neutralizing agents unless specifically directed by a veterinarian

4. Seek Veterinary Care Immediately

• Even if symptoms seem mild or improve, toxins can still affect the heart and nervous system

Prompt veterinary treatment can be lifesaving.

Preventing Bufo Toad Exposure

Veterinarians recommend:

• Supervising pets outdoors, especially at night

• Keeping dogs on leash during evening walks

• Removing standing water and food sources from yards

• Turning off outdoor lights at night when possible (they attract insects, which attract toads)

Emergency & Urgent Care at Ali'i Animal Hospitals

Did you know Ali'i Animal Hospitals offer urgent care and emergency services?

Dr. Pressler and Dr. Hancock bring decades of experience from 24-hour emergency hospitals, providing skilled and compassionate emergency care close to home.  All of our veterianrian team are experienced in urgent care and can help!

They are available to treat urgent and emergency cases at:

• Ali'i Animal Hospital – Kailua

• Ali'i Animal Hospital – Kaneohe

If your pet has been exposed to a Bufo toad, do not wait—seek veterinary care immediately.  All of our Ali'i locations are available everyday between 8a-6p for urgent care and walk-in emergencies.  If you are concerned, we are concerned!  Do no hesitate to call!