Symptoms of Aflatoxin in Cats

Aflatoxin is a type of mycotoxin, a fungus that can cause illness and death in cats. This mold is found in many places, but it becomes toxic in temperatures above 82 degrees. Aflatoxin can develop in cat food if it is stored improperly. If your cat is exposed to aflatoxins through food or surroundings, it may show symptoms that indicate poisoning.

  1. Initial Signs

    • Some of the early signs of aflatoxin poisoning are vomiting and loss of appetite. Your cat may refuse to eat food or drink water. Also, persistent vomiting is a sign of your cat's body trying to rid itself of the toxin. If you notice these early signs, consult with your vet. Treating your cat in the early stages can help the prognosis.

    Fatigue

    • You may notice that your cat is excessively tired. It may no show interest in normal activities, such as playing or moving around or responding to interaction. If your cat is normally active, this may be reason for concern, and you should monitor the animal for other symptoms that may be present.

    Jaundice

    • Jaundice results when your cat's body produces an excess of bilirubin, a substance secreted by red blood cells. Exposure to aflatxoin may cause your cat to develop jaundice. Some of the symptoms of jaundice are anorexia, lethargy, breathing problems, excessive urination, a swollen stomach, and weakness. The whites of your cat's eyes may appear more yellow than usual. Its skin and gums may appear pale and have a yellowish tinge. The development of jaundice usually signifies that damage to your cat's liver is present.

    Discolored Excrement

    • Aflatoxin may cause your cat's urine or fecal matter to be discolored. The urine may be orange or reddish colored and fecal matter may appear darker than usual. You may notice that the cat has bloody diarrhea, according to The Daily Puppy. These symptoms are severe signs that can take a few days to several weeks to appear.

    Reproduction Problems

    • Alflatoxin exposure can cause your cat to experience reproductive problems. Pregnant cats are especially affected since they can pass along the toxin to their offspring. In some cases, the offspring of pregnant cats exposed to aflatoxin showed signs of immune deficiencies according to Blakkatz Cattery.