Many everyday items found in our homes and gardens can be dangerous for cats. Although cats are often less likely than dogs to eat unfamiliar things, they are still at risk. Cats frequently ingest toxins when they groom themselves after walking through spills or brushing against treated surfaces or plants.
If you think your cat may have been exposed to a toxic substance, contact your vet immediately. Quick action can be lifesaving.
It isn’t always obvious when a cat has encountered a toxin.
Some serious illnesses can cause similar symptoms, so it’s essential that any cat showing these signs is examined by a vet as soon as possible.
Onions, garlic, leeks, chives and shallots are toxic to cats, whether raw, cooked or dried. These ingredients damage red blood cells and can lead to anaemia.
As they are often hidden in foods such as sauces, baby food and leftovers, cats should not be given table scraps.
Signs of onion, garlic, leek, chive or shallot toxicity may include vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, pale gums and breathing difficulties.
Please contact your vet immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Cats cannot safely process many medicines used by people. Painkillers, such as ibuprofen and paracetamol, are especially dangerous and can cause stomach ulcers, kidney failure, seizures and death.
Never give your cat medication unless it has been specifically prescribed by your vet.
Some flea treatments for dogs contain chemicals (such as permethrin) that are highly toxic to cats. Poisoning can occur if a dog product is applied directly to a cat, or if a cat grooms a treated dog.
Signs of permethrin toxicity include drooling, tremors, seizures, difficulty breathing and collapse.
This is an emergency, please seek veterinary care immediately.
Rodenticides can poison cats directly or indirectly, if they eat a poisoned rodent. These products are extremely dangerous and can be fatal.
Where possible, avoid using rodent poisons and explore safer pest-control alternatives.
Some rat and mouse poisons contain anticoagulant, which interfere with the blood’s ability to clot. One of the most worrying aspects of these poisons is that signs may not appear straight away. In some cases, symptoms can develop days or even weeks after exposure, making the cause difficult to establish.
Possible signs of anticoagulant rodenticide poisoning include:
Because symptoms can be delayed, a cat may seem normal at first and then suddenly become very unwell.
If you know or suspect your cat has encountered rat poison, even if they seem well, please contact your vet immediately. Early treatment can be lifesaving and is far more effective before symptoms develop.
Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which is extremely toxic to cats, even in very small amounts. Poisoning can occur via swallowing or through grooming contaminated fur or paws.
Early symptoms may include vomiting, wobbliness and lethargy, followed by kidney failure.
Antifreeze exposure is a life-threatening emergency, so please contact your vet immediately if you suspect your cat has come into contact with it.
Lilies are one of the most dangerous plants for cats. All parts of the plant, including the pollen, are toxic and can cause sudden kidney failure.
Cats can be poisoned simply by brushing past lilies and later licking pollen from their coat.
Never keep lilies in a home with cats.
If exposure is suspected, please seek emergency veterinary treatment straight away.
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which cats cannot safely break down. Dark chocolate and cocoa powder are especially dangerous.
Signs of poisoning include vomiting, diarrhoea, restlessness, tremors, seizures and heart problems.
If your cat eats chocolate, contact your vet immediately, even if they seem well.
Many slug and snail poisons contain metaldehyde, which is highly toxic to cats and can cause severe neurological signs and can be fatal.
Please use non-toxic alternatives or ensure treated areas are completely inaccessible to cats.
Substances such as white spirits, turpentine, creosote and some disinfectants can cause serious harm if swallowed or absorbed through your cat’s skin.
Keep cats away during use and contact your vet for advice if your cat gets these substances on their fur.
Treatment for poisoning can involve intensive care and hospitalisation, which can be costly. If possible, arrange pet insurance when your cat is young and healthy to help cover unexpected illness. Always speak openly with your vet about treatment options, costs and what is manageable for you.
