Poisoned Cat Treatment

When you know or suspect that your cat has ingested a toxic substance, the best way to help your pet is to take it to a vet immediately. However, there are a few things you can do to make the diagnosis and treatment easier.

  1. Keep Emergency Information Handy

    • You should always have the number of an emergency on-call veterinarian easily accessible. The best way to help your poisoned cat is to put it in the hands of a professional as quickly as possible. Even if you can't physically take your cat to an emergency vet visit, the vet might be able to give you life-saving advice over the phone.

    If You Cannot Reach a Vet

    • In the event that a veterinarian cannot be reached, contact the Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. There is a $65 fee for this service, and you should be prepared to give as much detailed information on your pet's condition as possible.

    Try to Determine What Was Consumed

    • Because cats are naturally curious creatures, they often find themselves in places where they may be exposed to toxic substances. Try to pinpoint exactly what it is your cat ate and around what time it ate it.

    Take Note of Symptoms

    • When you speak with a professional, you should be able to accurately describe your cat's symptoms. The treatment for a cat that is drowsy or unresponsive is different than actions taken for a vomiting and alert cat. Take note of any strange behaviors in your pet including lethargy, tremors, a higher heart or breathing rate or diarrhea.

    Types of Poisons

    • Though many more obvious substances can be dangerous to your cat, like windshield wiper fluid or other man-made chemicals, there are just as many less-obvious killers that your pet can get into. If you have an outdoor cat, be aware that some plants such as ivy, azaleas, lilies and daffodils can be poisonous to cats.