While it is rare for cats to get poisoned, it can happen. Our veterinary team in Fountain Valley is here to help you recognize substances in and around your home that may be dangerous to your feline friend and how to recognize the symptoms of cat poisoning.
How Cats Become Poisoned
Due to the fact that cats are so compact, even small amounts of poisonous substances can make them very sick quickly. The most common cause of cat poisoning is from ingesting substances on their fur because they spend most of their time grooming themselves.
Unlike dogs, cats are typically very fussy eaters. It is uncommon for cats to consume poisonous food products unless they are mixed in with their food. That being said, be careful when leaving out traps and poison for rodents because a cat can die from eating a mouse that has consumed rodent poison.
Household Substances That Are Poisonous to Cats
Many items we use every day are extremely toxic to cats. If you have any of the items listed below in your home, be sure to store them out of your cat's reach, and never give your cat medications without consulting your veterinarian first.
Antifreeze
Bleach
Weed killers
Pest control chemicals
Disinfectants
Detergent
Salt lamps
Lilies
Ibuprofen (painkiller)
Acetaminophen (painkiller)
Dog flea and tick medications
Spring flowering bulbs
Grapes
Chocolate
Alcohol
Xylitol
Onions
Garlic
How to Tell if Your Cat Has Been Poisoned
There's a vast range of substances that are toxic to cats, and the symptoms a poisoned cat will experience depends on the nature of the substance and whether it has been ingested, inhaled, or come in contact with your cat's skin.
Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms of poisoning in cats:
Drooling
Coughing
Diarrhea and vomiting
Twitching or seizures
Breathing difficulties (rapid or labored)
Coma
Skin inflammation or swelling
Abdominal pain
Shock or collapse
Unsteady gait
Depression or lethargy
Excessive drinking, urinating
Jaundice
Irregular heartbeat
Overall weakness
Fever
Loss of appetite
What to Do If Your Cat Shows Signs of Poisoning
Call your vet immediately if you see your cat consuming a toxic substance or showing signs of poisoning, as this is a veterinary emergency. To help your vet make a quick, accurate diagnosis, bring along as much information about the product as possible (e.g., the product label, a leaf off the plant, a sample of the food).
Can cats recover from poisoning?
Time is of the essence when it comes to treating a cat for poisoning. The quicker you act and seek veterinary care, the better your cat's chances for a full recovery. The severity of the poisoning will also depend on the amount of the toxic substance consumed. Early treatment can make all the difference in ensuring a positive outcome for your furry friend.
Diagnosis & Treatment of Poisoning in Cats
Diagnosis and treatment will vary depending on how your cat has been poisoned. The more information you can provide your vet, the better. If you don't know what has caused your cat to become ill, your vet can run a series of tests to assess your cat's condition.
Recovery from poisoning will greatly depend on how much of the poisonous substance your cat has been exposed to and how quickly you have gotten them to the vet for treatment. Outcomes for cats who receive early treatment for poisoning are much better than for cats who experience a long delay before receiving treatment.
Note:The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
Do you suspect your cat has ingested a poisonous substance? Contact our Fountain Valley vets right away for emergency care.
