Emergency First Aid for Cats: Toxicity Response Guide

Section 1: Symptoms of Poisoning in Cats

Cats can be poisoned through various means, not just by ingesting toxins directly or indirectly through licking contaminated fur. Exposure to chemicals through the skin or inhalation of toxic substances can also lead to poisoning. When a cat is poisoned, it may exhibit a range of symptoms, including difficulty breathing and wheezing, irritation in the stomach leading to vomiting and diarrhea, coughing, sneezing, drooling, a lack of energy, and weakness. The cat may also walk unsteadily, shake, experience seizures, or muscle tremors. Its vision and hearing may worsen, and it might suffer from frequent urination and dilated pupils.

Section 2: How to Handle Cat Poisoning

The approach to treating a poisoned cat depends on the stage and severity of the poisoning. Here are some specific steps to follow:

1. If the cat is ingesting a toxin: The owner must immediately intervene to stop the ingestion, remove the toxin from the cat's reach, and rinse the cat's mouth thoroughly with plenty of water. Ensure all parts of the mouth are cleaned, and then call a veterinarian to report the situation and seek immediate medical attention.

2. If the cat is showing symptoms but remains conscious: The owner must first prevent the cat from licking its body, as it may have residual toxins. If the cat hides due to discomfort, the owner should not allow this. Use a towel to gently wrap the cat and take it to a spacious, wellventilated, and welllit area. If the cat is wearing clothing or a collar, remove them first. If the cat has vomited, use tissues to clean the vomit from its mouth and fur, and then promptly take it to the vet.

3. If the cat is unconscious: The owner should move the cat to a welllit, ventilated, open space and gently cradle it with a towel, then contact a veterinarian immediately. Even if the cat is unconscious, the owner should not induce vomiting, as some toxins can cause further harm when regurgitated.

Many household plants can be highly toxic to cats. Owners should keep these plants out of the cat's reach. For information on plants that can poison cats, continue reading "Deadly Plants List for Dogs and Cats (Part One)."