Feral cats are often the targets of intentional poisoning because they are considered a nuisance. But they can also be victims of accidental poisoning, through access to automotive chemicals, garbage and rodent poisons.
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Digestive Symptoms
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According to "Cat Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook" (Delbert G. Carlson, DVM, et al; 1995), common symptoms of a poisoned stray cat include excessive drooling, sudden diarrhea and vomiting.
Other Symptoms
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Other common symptoms of a poisoned cat include caterwauling, coordination problems, heavy shivering and seizures.
Time Frame
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Depending on the poison and amount eaten, the cat may have from 15 minutes to live to only a couple of days.
Significance
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Sometimes the body of the cat is discovered after death. Signs that the death was by poisoning includes a wet chest, vomit or fluid from mouth and nose as well as a dirty anal region.
Warning
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Unless directed to by a vet, do not induce vomiting in a feral cat exhibiting symptoms of being poisoned. Some poisons, like turpentine or kerosene, can greatly damage the cat's digestive system when vomiting.
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