Rattle Snake Bites & Cats

There are many poisonous snakes that can mean danger to your cat outdoors. Though not as common as snake bites to dogs, snake bites to cats can occur, and owners should be know how to react in case of emergency.

  1. Bite Location

    • An estimated 90 percent of snake bites to cats are located on the head or legs. A snake bite to a cat’s body can be deadly and needs to be treated within 30 minutes.

    Symptoms

    • Snake bites will cause cats to experience severe pain and swelling. A cat bitten by a rattlesnake will generally experience restlessness, panting, drooling and weakness followed by collapsing, seizures, diarrhea and, in severe cases, shock and death.

    Treatment

    • Immediate veterinary treatment (within 30 minutes) is critical for cats after snake bites. Cats should be gently but firmly restrained. This can be done by wrapping the cat in a towel. Once the bite is located, wrap the area with bandages. Wrap leg bites between the bite and heart tightly but avoid cutting blood circulation. Loosen bandages for five minutes every hour.

    Actions to Avoid

    • Do not wash wound or apply ice. Doing so can cause venom to be absorbed faster and make the cat sicker. Do not cut the wound or try to suck out venom.

    Prepairing a First Aid Kit

    • Every pet owner should maintain a first aid kit. Items to help treat snake bites include the telephone number to your veterinarian and at least two 24-hour pet hospitals, the number to poison control for humans and animals and torn cloth or bandages.