Cats are quite curious animals and that can unfortunately result in them consuming something toxic. Whether it’s a household plant, a seemingly harmless food, or a common cleaning product, many everyday items pose a serious risk to our feline friends.
Knowing which items are poisonous as well as the signs of a poisoned cat is very important to be able to get them to a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Signs your cat has been poisoned
Depending on the substance that your cat has ingested, they may have different reactions. These are the signs to look out for:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Breathing difficulties
- Changes in drinking, urination or appetite
- Salivation
- Shock or collapse
- Inflammation or swelling
What to do if you think your cat has been poisoned?
If your cat has ingested or touched something poisonous, don’t wait for signs to appear, take them to the vet immediately. In the event that your cat is unconscious, read this article to learn what to do.
Do not try to make your cat vomit or treat the issue yourself.
Call your vet and they will provide you with the correct advice to help your pet while on your way to the vet.
It is useful for the vet if you can take a picture or bring the substance with you to the vet so they are fully informed. For example, if your cat has been affected by a poisonous plant take a picture of the plant and the vets will be able to identify the type. Similarly if your can has consumed rat poison or a medicine, bring the packaging with you to the vets.
What substances are poisonous to pets?
You might be surprised to learn about the amount of substances that can be harmful to your pet.
Ranging from plants, foods and household items, some things are better kept away from your cat.
Poisonous plants
Despite their beautiful appearance, some flowers and plants are highly poisonous and potentially deadly to cats.
Lilies are one type of flower that are particularly harmful to cats. All parts of the lily are toxic and can cause harm to the cat’s kidneys if ingested. As a general rule, keep all types of lilies away from cats but the day lily, easter lily and tiger lily have been found to be the most poisonous.
Other flowers include:
- Daffodils
- Ficus
- Cheese plants
- Mistletoe
- Poinsettia
- Cycads
Common household items
Cats can be poisoned by a range of substances. As well as many human foods, there are also many non-food items that can seriously harm your dog.
Cleaning products and pest control substances like rodent poison or slug bait are particularly bad due to the chemicals in them .
Make sure that’s lids are kept securely on these items to prevent your cats getting access to it.
Other items
- Antifreeze –
- Mouse and rat poison
- Rock salt
- Decorating materials
- Weed killer
- Insect killer
- Human painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen
Poisonous food
Some cats are certainly fussier than others and may not be concerned with human food. However always take care with leaving these dangerous foods on counter tops where they could be eaten.
It’s a common fact that chocolate is poisonous to dogs, but did you know that it is also harmful to cats? Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine which is toxic to most animals and if consumed can result in vomiting or diarrhoea.
Other foods that cats shouldn’t eat include:
- Grapes, sultanas and other dried fruit
- Onions and garlic
- Coffee
- Avocados
- Raw meat, fish or eggs
- Alcohol
Other items
Some essential oils can also be dangerous to cats. This can be through skin contact, inhalation or consuming it.
To keep your cat safe around essential oils:
- Never apply essential oils to your cat’s fur or skin
- Store oils in a contained place, out of reach from your cat
- Wash your hands after using them
If you have found this information useful and would like to learn more about first aid for pets, consider completing a First Aid for Pets online course.
About us
Written by Emma Hammett for First Aid for Life
Award-winning first aid training tailored to your needs
It is strongly advised that you attend a practical First Aid for Pets course or take our online course to understand what to do in a medical emergency. Please visit https://firstaidforlife.org.uk, https://www.firstaidforpets.net or call 0208 675 4036 for more information about our courses.
First Aid for Life is a multi-award-winning, fully regulated first aid training provider. Our trainers are highly experienced medical, health and emergency services professionals. They will tailor the training to your needs. Courses for groups or individuals at our venue or yours.
First Aid for Pets provides this information for guidance. It is not in any way a substitute for veterinary advice. The author does not accept any liability or responsibility for any inaccuracies or for any mistreatment or misdiagnosis of any person or animal, however caused.