Dietary Intoxications of the Exotic Animal Patient.

Avocado toxicosis is due to persin, which is found in all components of the plant. Rabbits, psittacines, ostriches, aye-ayes, and fish appear to be sensitive to avocado intoxication, which causes life-threatening cardiotoxicosis. Allium toxicosis causes hemolytic anemia that can be managed with blood transfusions, but can be life-threatening. Methylxanthine toxicosis appears to be limited to birds at this time, with similar clinical signs as dogs. Fireflies are highly toxic to bearded dragons and other lizards, causing fatal cardiotoxicosis. While dietary intoxications are often accidental, they can have life-threatening consequences with no documented antidotes. Therefore, prevention of toxicosis is essential.