Information on Rehabilitating a Household Poisoned Cat

Accidents happen, and when they do, it can be traumatic. Being prepared and knowing how to care for your cat in the event of an accidental poisoning is crucial to prevent panic and aid your cat in the best way possible.

  1. Identification

    • Different poisons present different symptoms. Changes in behavior, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, excessive salivation, loss of appetite and ataxia are common but are not always present.

    Time Frame

    • Some poisons, like antifreeze, manifest symptoms immediately. Others, like azaleas, take a day or more to manifest. Even if your cat does not show symptoms immediately, seek emergency care.

    Solution

    • Call a poison control center or seek emergency veterinary care as soon as you recognize your pet has ingested a toxic substance. Collect any toxin or material your pet has ingested or vomited to aid in diagnosis.

    After Care

    • Follow the advice of the poison control hot line or veterinarian regarding previsit care and postvisit care. If you are unable to seek emergency care immediately, consult the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the product your pet has ingested.

    Prevention

    • To make emergencies easier to cope with, keep a cat first-aid kit on hand. Hydrogen peroxide, a turkey baster, dish washing liquid, artificial tear solution and a towel or muzzle should be included. Hydrogen peroxide administered with a turkey baster enables you to induce vomiting, dish washing liquid removes skin irritants and artificial tear solution allows you to flush your cat's eyes. A towel or muzzle prevents scared cats from causing injury.