Critical Cat Poisoning Symptoms: Immediate Help Needed!
What Are the Symptoms of a Poisoned Cat on the Verge of Death?
The symptoms of poisoning in cats can vary greatly depending on the type of poison ingested. Consequently, the signs of poisoning may differ from one case to another. Some poisons can cause extensive bleeding under the skin, bleeding in the stool, and ultimately lead to death. Others may trigger severe vomiting, seizures, spasms, and screaming, with many cats succumbing to acute seizures. Some poisons can lead to a chronic form of death, with clinical signs including stiff limbs and drooling.
Common Symptoms of Poisoning in Cats:
Somnolence: A poisoned cat may become drowsy and weak. If your usually energetic and lively cat suddenly becomes very quiet, it's a sign that something is amiss.
Emotional Fluctuations: Certain toxins can cause neurological reactions in cats, leading to excitability, aimless wandering, excessive grooming, or chewing on paws, all indicative of stress and anxiety.
Drooling Excessively: Excessive drooling can be a sign of poisoning, as cats may not be able to control their salivary glands, and there may be froth around their mouths. However, excessive drooling can also be caused by food flavors, strong odors in the environment, dental issues, or tumors.
Vomiting: If a cat ingests something toxic, vomiting typically begins 24 hours later. As the food begins to break down, the cat's gastrointestinal system reacts, leading to vomiting. In some cases, the vomit may contain blood.
Unsteady or Uncoordinated Posture: If your cat starts to lose balance or coordination without any leg injury, it could be due to the ingestion of a toxic substance. Symptoms usually appear at least 4 hours after exposure.
Diarrhea: Many toxic substances can irritate a cat's gastrointestinal tract, leading to diarrhea. This indicates that the toxins have entered the bloodstream. With timely treatment, cats can recover. However, it's important to give your cat probiotics to regulate the gut after the poisoning, as longterm diarrhea can occur due to the irritation of the intestines during the poisoning.
Fast, Shallow Breathing: Poisoned cats may breathe rapidly and shallowly. This sudden change in breathing patterns is a clear sign of poisoning.
Epileptic Seizures: When toxic substances enter a cat's bloodstream, they can trigger seizures, indicating that the cat is in a highrisk state. Immediate veterinary care is necessary to prevent death.