Pest Library
Cane Toads
Cane toads are an invasive species that's become a serious concern for Southwest Florida pet owners. The milky toxin they produce from glands behind their eyes and over their shoulders is potent enough to kill a pet or native animal that licks or bites one, and it can irritate human skin and eyes too. They're also a problem for local wildlife, competing with native species for feeding and breeding sites. Cane toads are most active during the rainy season and are commonly found near standing water, dense shrubbery, and outdoor lighting at night.
About Cane Toads
Cane toads are an invasive species that's become a serious concern for Southwest Florida pet owners. The milky toxin they produce from glands behind their eyes and over their shoulders is potent enough to kill a pet or native animal that licks or bites one, and it can irritate human skin and eyes too. They're also a problem for local wildlife, competing with native species for feeding and breeding sites. Cane toads are most active during the rainy season and are commonly found near standing water, dense shrubbery, and outdoor lighting at night.
Signs of Cane Toads Infestation
- Large, warty toads (often 4–9 inches long) seen in the yard, especially at night near outdoor lighting
- Toads gathered near pools, ponds, or other standing water features
- Pet food bowls left outside attracting toads after dark
- Toads hiding in dense shrubbery, brush piles, or overgrown grass during the day
Our Treatment Approach
We inspect your property, identify the conditions attracting cane toads — overgrown grass, dense shrubbery, brush piles, yard debris, and standing water near pools or other features — and use all-natural repellents to remove them, with extra visits during the rainy season when they're most active. See our cane toad removal service page for full details.
Ready to get rid of cane toads for good? See our cane toad removal page for full details.
Prevention Tips
- Keep grass cut short and remove brush piles and yard debris
- Don't leave pet food outside overnight
- Fill in low spots in the yard that collect rainwater after storms
- Reinforce the bottom of fencing with fine mesh to keep toads from getting underneath
- Limit outdoor lighting that attracts the insects cane toads feed on
Cane Toads FAQs
Why are cane toads dangerous to pets?
Cane toads produce a toxin called bufotoxin in glands on their skin, and a dog doesn't have to swallow a toad to be affected — just mouthing, licking, or biting one is enough for the toxin to be absorbed through the gums and mouth.
What should I do if my dog licks a cane toad?
Rinse your dog's mouth out with water, pointing the hose away from the back of the throat, and call your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately, since cane toad toxin can act fast.
When are cane toads most active in Southwest Florida?
Cane toads are most active during the rainy season, typically late spring through fall, and are most often seen at night near outdoor lighting and water features.