Food Poisoning in Cats

Cats are sensitive to bacteria that cause food poisoning, according to DoctorDog.com. Most often, cats acquire this bacteria by eating human food that has been thrown away.

  1. Identification

    • Cats with food poisoning often first exhibit vomiting and tenderness in the belly. If left untreated, symptoms like bloody diarrhea and shock can occur.

    Types

    • Food poisoning in cats is usually caused by the bacterial strains E. coli, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus and Salmonella, according to PetEducation.com.

    Causes

    • These bacteria can be acquired from eating rotting, dead animals, food that has gone bad, compost and from molds.

    Effects

    • These bacteria make cats sick by giving off toxins in the digestive tract. However, it is important to note each bacteria is slightly different in the way it reacts.

    Time Frame

    • Most symptoms manifest themselves about three hours after the cat ingests the bacteria, according to PetEducation.com.