1. Assess the situation:
* How much did your cat eat? A small nibble might not be cause for alarm, but a large amount could be dangerous.
* What part of the plant did they eat? The flowers are generally considered less toxic than the leaves and stems.
* How is your cat acting? Are they showing any signs of illness such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite?
2. Contact your veterinarian immediately:
* Explain the situation to your vet, including how much hibiscus your cat ate and any symptoms they are showing.
* Your vet will be able to advise you on the best course of action, which might include:
* Inducing vomiting: This is usually only recommended if the ingestion was recent.
* Activated charcoal: This can help absorb toxins in the stomach.
* Supportive care: Your vet may recommend fluids and monitoring to help your cat recover.
3. Take preventative measures:
* Keep hibiscus plants out of reach of your cat. This may mean placing them in a different room or hanging them from the ceiling.
* Consider alternative plants. There are many cat-friendly plants that are safe for your feline friend to be around.
Remember, it's always best to err on the side of caution. If you suspect your cat has ingested something toxic, seek veterinary advice immediately.