Emergency Guide: What to Do If Your Cat Eats Poisonous

Part 1: Plants That Can Poison Cats

1. Ranunculaceae Family Plants: Cats should steer clear of plants like the fresh leaves and stems of buttercups, as they contain protoporphyrin. If ingested, this can irritate the cat's gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain.

2. Araceae Family Plants: Plants like peace lilies, ivies, and dieffenbachias contain calcium oxalate crystals and unknown enzymes in all parts. If a cat ingests any part of these plants, it may suffer from oral irritation, severe burns, drooling, difficulty swallowing, respiratory distress, and eye irritation.

3. Lilies: Every part of the lily, including the pollen, is toxic to cats. Lilies contain an unknown toxin that can cause acute kidney failure. Symptoms of poisoning include depression, vomiting, and excessive sleepiness.

4. Rhododendrons and Laurel Trees: These plants contain grayanotoxins. If a cat ingests them, it may experience vomiting, aspiration pneumonia, arrhythmia, and seizures.

5. Datura: All parts of this plant contain nerve toxins. If a cat ingests it, it can lead to rapid onset of vomiting, sneezing, nystagmus (eye twitching), and in severe cases, death.

There are many more plants that can poison cats. Pet owners should educate themselves to prevent any accidents.

Part 2: Treatment for Cat Plant Poisoning

1. Oral Irrigation: Gently rinse the cat's mouth, especially if the plant has been ingested through the mouth. Repeat this process several times after the cat has vomited.

2. Inducing Vomiting: Athome cat owners can use ipecac syrup to induce vomiting. Veterinarians may use apomorphine for vomiting and yohimbine to reverse it after vomiting.

3. Activated Charcoal: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to mix the activated charcoal solution and administer it. It's recommended to use a gastric tube for a quick and reliable delivery.

4. Laxatives: Polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution or lactulose can be effective.

5. Fluid Therapy: If systemic symptoms appear, fluid therapy should be administered to maintain electrolyte balance.

6. Control of Gastrointestinal Irritation: Sucralfate can act as a gastrointestinal protectant, while cimetidine can help reduce stomach acid and protect the stomach lining.

When a cat is poisoned by plants, immediate treatment is crucial. If the situation is not under control, it's best to take the cat to a veterinarian. Don't hesitate to consult an online vet for further guidance if you have any questions or concerns.