Has my cat been poisoned?

Cats are curious creatures, and sometimes their exploration can lead to accidental poisoning. Knowing the symptoms of cat poisoning and what steps to take can be crucial in ensuring the health and safety of your feline friend. In this blog post, our Los Angeles vets will discuss the signs and symptoms of cat poisoning and what to do if you suspect your cat might be poisoned.

Cat Poisoning

Cats can become very ill, even from small amounts of poisonous substances, due to their size. Their excessive attention to cleanliness means that the most common cause of cat poisoning is ingestion by licking toxic substances off their fur while grooming themselves.

Unlike dogs, cats are typically very picky eaters, and it is uncommon for cats to consume a poisonous food product unless it's mixed in with their food.

Household Substances Poisonous to Cats

Many everyday items are extremely toxic to cats. If you have any of the items listed below in your home, store them out of your cat's reach, and never give your cat medications without consulting your veterinarian first. 

How can I tell if my cat has been poisoned?

There's a vast range of toxic substances for cats, and the signs of your cay being poisoned will depend on the nature of the substance and whether it has been ingested, inhaled, or come into contact with your cat's skin. Here are some of the most common symptoms that your cat has been poisoned:

What happens if a cat eats a poisoned mouse?

One common way cats can get poisoned is by eating a poisoned mouse. This is known as secondary poisoning. Your cat can die if they eat a poisoned mouse, because the toxins can transfer to the cat. Signs a mouse has poisoned your cat include many symptoms, particularly vomiting, seizures, and lethargy.

What should I do if my cat has been poisoned?

If you notice any of the symptoms above and worry your cat might be poisoned, take the following steps immediately:

• If possible, try to determine what your cat has ingested. This information will be crucial for the veterinarian.
• Unless instructed by a veterinarian, do not try to make your cat vomit, as this can sometimes cause more harm.
• Contact your vet or an emergency animal clinic right away. Provide them with as much information as possible about the symptoms and potential toxins.
• If you know what your cat ingested, bring a sample of the substance or the packaging to the vet.
• Follow the instructions given by the veterinarian, which may include bringing your cat in for immediate treatment.

Diagnosis & Treatment of Poisoning in Cats

The diagnosis and treatment of cat poisoning will vary according to the nature of the toxin involved. It is important to provide your vet with as much information as possible. If you are unsure about the cause of your cat's poisoning, your vet can conduct a series of tests to assess the situation. 

Recovery from poisoning depends greatly on the amount of the toxic substance the cat has been exposed to and the speed at which it receives treatment. Cats promptly treated for poisoning have a better chance of recovery than those with delayed 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.

If your cat is displaying symptoms of poisoning, or if you see them consuming a toxic substance, contact our Los Angeles clinic immediately.