Herbicide Poisoning in Cats

Outdoor cats are at risk for herbicide poisoning. Herbicides--chemicals that kill weeds--are toxic when ingested. They may cause severe reactions or death for poisoned cats. Recognizing the signs of herbicide ingestion may save your cat's life.

  1. Types

    • Cornell University's Department of Animal Science warns that cats who ingest weedkillers of the dipyridyl type, including paraquat and diquat, and cats who ingest molluscacides, including Defender, have a poor chance of recovery. Cats who ingest chlorophenoxy herbicides have a better chance of survival.

    Effects

    • Chlorophenoxy weedkillers cause diarrhea, vomiting and a refusal to eat or move. Dipyridyls first cause depression and vomiting, with breathing problems occurring after three weeks. Molluscacides cause excessive salivation, seizures, diarrhea, depression and death.

    Time Frame

    • The effects of chlorophenoxy herbicides begin within 12 hours. Digestive problems are the first sign of dipyridyl poisoning, with respiratory issues beginning after three weeks. Molluscacides poisoning shows up three hours after ingestion and results in feline death due to respiratory failure within 24 hours.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Prevent feline herbicide poisoning by keeping your cat indoors. Take your cat to a veterinarian immediately if you suspect herbicide poisoning; a veterinarian may induce vomiting or use an absorbent to soak up the poison from your cat's stomach.

    Warning

    • If your cat shows signs of poisoning, seek immediate veterinary help. Without treatment, herbicide poisoning will result in your cat's death.