Cat Poisons A - Z

A - B List of cat poisons C - D List of poisons E - O List of cat poisons P - Z List of cat poisons

A - B List of cat poisons

Acrolein

Overheated oil or fat may poison your cat if they find it and consume it. Unfortunately, cats do find this extremely palatable so are at risk. Deep fat fryers, which have not been emptied or cleaned can be a dangerous source, or if you decant any used oil or fat from cooking can also be found in fridges or pantries.

Clinical Signs: High temperature/fever, difficulty in breathing, blue tinged mucous membranes (See your dogs gums, which are normally a healthy pink colour) collapse, death.

Adder Bites

Adders (Vipera berus) are one of the only poisonous snakes found in the U.K’s natural habitat. They hibernate from mid October to the end of February in England. Mating season is April to early May and new young are born between August and early September. Although they will shy away from busy area, they will attack if disturbed, especially nosy cats rummaging in their territory. Immediate veterinary care is advised if your cat is bitten. Keep your cat away from known adder habitats.

Clinical Signs: Sudden swelling, hyperexcitabilty, tremors, loss of coordination, dilated pupils, collapse, death.

Aflatoxin

Aflatoxin is an ingredient contained in contaminated grain, which in turn is poisonous to our cats. It is recommended to keep all of your cats away from any contaminated grain designed to poison other animals when it is laid down or stored. Cover the poison over to stop larger animals accessing it. Even if you are advised that the poison is not palatable to cats, beware, our cats have very strange tastes and will consume the most unpalatable of substances. Likewise keep your cat away from any dead or dying rodents as they also may be inadvertently poisoned.

Clinical Signs: Not eating, refusing food, listlessness, dullness, weight loss, swollen abdomen, jaundice (yellow tinted mucous members, look at the white area of the eye).

Alphachlorolose

Alphachlorolose is an ingredient contained in rat and mouse poison, which in turn is poisonous to our cats. It is recommended to keep all of your cats away from any rat / mouse poison or bait when it is laid down or stored. Cover the poison over to stop larger animals accessing it. Even if you are advised that the poison is not palatable to cats, beware, our cats have very strange tastes and will consume the most unpalatable of substances. Likewise keep your cat away from any dead or dying rodents as they also may be inadvertently poisoned.

Clinical Signs: In coordination, cold extremities, coma.

Antifreeze

Otherwise known as ‘Ethylene glycol’ is normally placed in car radiators in the winter. Unfortunately poisoning with antifreeze is common as it has a very sweet taste and any spilled antifreeze may be licked by cats in quantities sufficient to cause extreme sickness and even death. Damage is usually done to the kidneys If you are storing antifreeze in the garage / workshop / shed, keep containers properly sealed and out of reach of your cats. Clear up any spillages immediately.

Clinical Signs: Depression, restlessness, in coordination, convulsions, coma and death.

Antu

Antu is an ingredient contained in rat and mouse poison, which in turn is poisonous to our cats. It is recommended to keep all of your cats away from any rat / mouse poison or bait when it is laid down or stored. Cover the poison over to stop larger animals accessing it. Even if you are advised that the poison is not palatable to cats, beware, our cats have very strange tastes and will consume the most unpalatable of substances. Likewise keep your cat away from any dead or dying rodents as they may be inadvertently poisoned.

Clinical Signs: Pale mucous membranes, cold extremities, coughing, possibly coughing up blood, increased respiratory rate or difficulty in breathing, bleeding gums, vomiting, or vomiting up blood, blood passed in the urine, diarrhoea, blood passed in the faces, abdominal

Arsenic

Arsenic is an ingredient, which can be used in a number of poison’s and toxic substances including rat / mouse poisons and herbicides. Keep all poisons away from your cats when using them or storing in sheds or garages. Cats will find the most abhorrent substances palatable.

Clinical Signs: Listlessness, dull, weak, increased dribbling (salivation), Abdominal disorders, including diarrhoea, vomiting, showing pain, collapse, death.

Aspirin

See ‘Human Medicines’

Asprin is a drug normally given to humans for the treatment of pain. Although a lot of drugs used today in human have been tested and are licensed for use in our animals, there are still a lot of drugs that can be harmful if we use them in our cats. Aspirin, even if given in small doses can prove fatal in our cats. Keep all drugs bought or prescribed for human use away from your cats. Only give medication under the direction of your veterinary surgeon.

Clinical Signs: Vomiting, not eating, dull, incoordination, convulsions.

Barbiturates

Barbiturates which can be known as sedatives or hypnotics, designed to depress the activity of the central nervous system. Although they are prescribed for use in some species, in a number of disease conditions. Cats are at risk of poisoning through eating their owners prescribed tablets. If found and taken by cats their affect could prove fatal. Seek immediate veterinary care.

Clinical Signs: Depression, sleepiness, in coordinated, dilated pupils, depressed respiratory and heat rate, coma.

Bee Stings

Occasionally cats that have been stung by bees may go into severe shock and collapse (known as anaphylactic shock) if they are allergic to the sting. Immediate veterinary attention is required if this is the case. Likewise if the tongue is stung it will require emergency treatment to treat the swelling, which could block the animals’ airway. Common areas to be stung are the mouth if the cat tries to catch the insect or the paws, if the cat plays with a drowsy bee. If the bee sting is still present you can try and remove it with a pair of tweezers and antihistamine cream can be applied. If the cat is stung in the mouth bathe the area with a diluted solution of sodium bicarbonate. Observe the area for signs of swelling or contact your veterinary practice if your cat is in great pain or distress.

Clinical Signs: Vomiting. Diarrhoea, swelling, respiratory difficulties, collapse, death.

Benzoic Acid

Benzoic Acid is an antiseptic which is active against bacteria and fungi, it can be used either as a food preservative, a preservative in some pharmaceutical preparations or as a treatment of fungal infections of the skin. If you suspect your animal may have been poisoned or exposed to any commercially produced food, pharmaceutical preparation or preparation to treat fungal infections. Take along these items to your vet, together with the packaging to assist them with the diagnosis.

Clinical Signs: Hyperexcitabilty, aggression, increased dribbling, collapse, coma, death.

Berries

Berries commonly found in your garden may be poisonous to your cat. Plants, which produce berries or seeds, may be attractive to your cat, especially the younger animal. Mistletoe, Holly, Laburnum, all plants that may be poisonous to your cat.

Brodifacoum

See ‘Wafarin’

…is an ingredient contained in rat and mouse poison, which in turn is poisonous to our cats. It is recommended to keep all of your cats away from any rat / mouse poison or bait when it is laid down or stored. Cover the poison over to stop larger animals accessing it. Even if you are advised that the poison is not palatable to cats, beware, our cats have very strange tastes and will consume the most unpalatable of substances. Likewise keep your cat away from any dead or dying rodents as they also may be inadvertently poisoned.

Bromadioline

See ‘Wafarin’

Bromadioline is an ingredient contained in rat and mouse poison, which in turn is poisonous to our cats. It is recommended to keep all of your cats away from any rat / mouse poison or bait when it is laid down or stored. Cover the poison over to stop larger animals accessing it. Even if you are advised that the poison is not palatable to cats, beware, our cats have very strange tastes and will consume the most unpalatable of substances. Likewise keep your cat away from any dead or dying rodents as they also may be inadvertently poisoned.

Bulbs

Bulbs such as daffodils and snowdrops are also potentially poisonous to our cats. Be aware of newly planted bulbs or animals that enjoy digging, keep cats away from greenhouses or sheds, where bulbs may be stored.

Bypyridyl

Bypyridyl is a substance found in herbicides. Keep cats way from areas where these substances are being used or sprayed; make sure they do not have access to open containers of herbicides. Keeping fresh drinking water available at all times will prevent the need for cats to find other sources of liquid to drink to quench their thirst. Keep cats’ coats clean and free from any of these compounds, taking car to wash off any detergent used to remove the poison, many cats have been poisoned through licking the detergent/compound used to wash off the original poison.

C - D List of poisons

Calciferol

Is an ingredient contained in rat and mouse poison, which in turn is poisonous to our cats. It is recommended to keep all of your cats away from any rat/ mouse poison or bait when it is laid down or stored. Cover the poison over to stop larger animals accessing it. Even if you are advised that the poison is not palatable to cats, beware, our cats have very strange tastes and will consume the most unpalatable of substances. Likewise keep your cat away from any dead or dying rodents as they also may be inadvertently poisoned.

Clinical Signs: Loss of appetite/refusal of food, arching of back, drinking and urinating a lot, listlessness, diarrhoea, or constipation.

Carbamates

See ‘Insecticides’

Keep cats way from areas where these substances are being sprayed, laid down or placed on bait; make sure they do not have access to open containers of insecticides. Keeping fresh drinking water available at all times will prevent the need for cats to find other sources of liquid to drink to quench their thirst. Keep cats’ coats clean and free from any of these compounds, taking care to wash off any detergent used to remove the poison, many cats have been poisoned through licking the detergent/compound used to wash off the original poison. These compounds will have an affect in disrupting the nervous system; they cause an excess of the chemical acetylchlorine to accumulate in the body, which in turn affects the normal transmitting of nerves. As always, emergency veterinary care should be sought if you suspect your cat or cat has been exposed to these substances.

Clinical Signs: Abdominal disorders, including vomiting/diarrhoea, pain, loss of appetite, muscular tremors/ incoordination, increased dribbling, difficulty in breathing, paralysis, convulsions, coma, and death.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon Monoxide is a poisonous gas which can be found emitted from car exhaust fumes or solid fuel/oil/calor gas burning appliance, often in rooms with poor ventilation, the whole family could be at risk, but quite often cats are more likely to be at risk due to being left for longer periods in confined spaces. Check that all appliances are regularly serviced and rooms are well ventilated. Do not leave your cat even for a short period confined in garages or sheds.

Clinical Signs: Weakness, collapse, blindness/deafness, difficulty in breathing, bluish mucous membrane (look at the gums, which should normally be a health pink colour) coma, death.

Chlorate

Keep cats way from areas where these substances are being used or sprayed; make sure they do not have access to open containers of insecticides. Keeping fresh drinking water available at all times will prevent the need for cats to find other sources of liquid to drink to quench their thirst. Keep cats’ coats clean and free from any of these compounds, taking care to wash off any detergent used to remove the poison, many cats have been poisoned through licking the detergent/compound used to wash off the original poison.

Clinical Signs: Listlessness, depression, pain displayed in the abdominal area, blood present in the faeces and urine, blue or brownish coloured mucous membranes (check the gums, which should normally be a healthy pink colour).

Chlorophacinone

See ‘Wafarin’

Chlorophacinone is an ingredient contained in rat and mouse poison, which in turn is poisonous to our cats. It is recommended to keep all of your cats away from any rat/ mouse poison or bait when it is laid down or stored. Cover the poison over to stop larger animals accessing it. Even if you are advised that the poison is not palatable to cats, beware, our cats have very strange tastes and will consume the most unpalatable of substances. Likewise keep your cat away from any dead or dying rodents as they also may be inadvertently poisoned.

Cigars and Cigarettes

The nicotine in cigars and cigarettes can prove toxic to our cats and cats. Ensure that all leftover ends or butts are appropriately disposed of. Likewise keep all packets away from them.

Clinical Signs: Dribbling, vomiting, may have diarrhoea and show abdominal pain. Later on their muscle s may become weak, twitch, convulsions, death.

Coumachlor

See ‘Wafarin’

Coumachlor is an ingredient contained in rat and mouse poison, which in turn is poisonous to our cats. It is recommended to keep all of your cats away from any rat / mouse poison or bait when it is laid down or stored. Cover the poison over to stop larger animals accessing it. Even if you are advised that the poison is not palatable to cats, beware, our cats have very strange tastes and will consume the most unpalatable of substances. Likewise keep your cat away from any dead or dying rodents as they also may be inadvertently poisoned.

Coumatetrayl

Coumatetrayl is an ingredient contained in rat and mouse poison, which in turn is poisonous to our cats. It is recommended to keep all of your cats away from any rat / mouse poison or bait when it is laid down or stored. Cover the poison over to stop larger animals accessing it. Even if you are advised that the poison is not palatable to cats, beware, our cats have very strange tastes and will consume the most unpalatable of substances. Likewise keep your cat away from any dead or dying rodents as they also may be inadvertently poisoned.

Creosote

See ‘Phenol’

Cyanide

Cyanide is an extremely toxic and dangerous compound; one of its uses is to destroy wasp’s nests. If they come into contact, dogs will immediately suffer from respiratory problems and fall into a coma. Emergency veterinary treatment should be sought.

Detergents

This large range of compounds are normally used for domestic/commercial use and can include a range of products ranging from bleaches, toilet cleaners (beware animals drinking from toilets as a source of drinking water), detergents and caustics, these compounds are corrosive and contain either acids or alkalis which will destroy tissues upon contact, that in turn dissolve through the tissue membranes and are absorbed into the bloodstream which as well as causing local tissue injury will cause general illness to a variety of body systems. So depending on the substance injury can occur from a mild local irritation (many washing powder detergents to severe internal disease (pine oils and others). It is recommended to flush the affected area with plain warm water to wash the chemical away and then seek urgent veterinary attention.

Diesel Fuel

See ‘Petrol’

Difenacoum

See ‘Wafarin’

Is an ingredient contained in rat and mouse poison, which in turn is poisonous to our cats. It is recommended to keep all of your cats away from any rat / mouse poison or bait when it is laid down or stored. Cover the poison over to stop larger animals accessing it. Even if you are advised that the poison is not palatable to cats, beware, our cats have very strange tastes and will consume the most unpalatable of substances. Likewise keep your cat away from any dead or dying rodents as they also may be inadvertently poisoned.

Dinitro Compounds

See ‘Insecticides’ & ‘Herbicides’

Found in insecticides and herbicides. Keep cats way from areas where these substances are being used, sprayed or put on bait; make sure they do not have access to open containers of insecticides. Keeping fresh drinking water available at all times will prevent the need for cats to find other sources of liquid to drink to quench their thirst. Keep cats’ coats clean and free from any of these compounds, taking care to wash off any detergent used to remove the poison, many cats have been poisoned through licking the detergent/compound used to wash off the original poison.

Clinical Signs: Raised temperature, loss of appetite/refusal of food, listlessness/depression/dull, increased drinking and respiratory rate, difficulty in breathing, death.

Diphacinone

See ‘Wafarin’

Diphacinone is an ingredient contained in rat and mouse poison, which in turn is poisonous to our cats. It is recommended to keep all of your cats away from any rat / mouse poison or bait when it is laid down or stored. Cover the poison over to stop larger animals accessing it. Even if you are advised that the poison is not palatable to cats, beware, our cats have very strange tastes and will consume the most unpalatable of substances. Likewise keep your cat away from any dead or dying rodents as they also may be inadvertently poisoned.

Diquat

See ‘Insecticides’ & ‘Herbicides’

Found in insecticides and fungicides. Keep cats way from areas where these substances are being sprayed; make sure they do not have access to open containers of insecticides. Keeping fresh drinking water available at all times will prevent the need for cats to find other sources of liquid to drink to quench their thirst. Keep cats’ coats clean and free from any of these compounds, taking care to wash off any detergent used to remove the poison, many cats have been poisoned through licking the detergent/compound used to wash off the original poison.

Clinical Signs: Raised temperature, loss of appetite/refusal of food, listlessness/depression/dull, increased drinking and respiratory rate, difficulty in breathing, death.

Disinfectants

E - O List of cat poisons

Ethylene Glycol

See ‘Antifreeze’

Flea Products

Every year, millions of pounds is spent by cat owners, trying to eradicate the infestation of fleas on our cats and in our homes. Most of the products do not cause any problems if use as directed and in accordance to the instructions on the label. However, problems may arise if too much of the dosage is given or an environmental treatment is used on the cat or cat. We recommend only using flea products recommended by your veterinary surgeon and follow the instructions on the product carefully. Stop using if the following clinical signs are observed; Excessive dribbling, vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, depression and contact your veterinary surgery immediately. You may also wish to gently bathe the cat with warm water to remove the product from the cat’s coat and skin.

Fumes

Such as carbon monoxide, wood preservers, smoke inhalation can prove potentially fatal to our cats or cats. Make sure that all appliances are regularly serviced and rooms are well ventilated. Do not leave your cat even for a short period confined in garages or sheds. Also smoke detectors will help with saving your whole families life. Quite often cats are more likely to be at risk due to being left for longer periods in confined spaces.

Clinical Signs: Weakness, collapse, blindness / deafness, difficulty in breathing, bluish mucous membrane (look at the gums, which should normally be a health pink colour) coma, death.

Fungicides

Keep cats way from areas where these substances are being used; make sure they do not have access to open containers of fungicides. Keeping fresh drinking water available at all times will prevent the need for cats to find other sources of liquid to drink to quench their thirst. Keep cats’ coats clean and free from any of these compounds, taking care to wash off any detergent used to remove the poison, many cats have been poisoned through licking the detergent/compound used to wash off the original poison.

Gas

See ‘Fumes’ and ‘Carbon Monoxide’

Glue

Many glues will cause a local skin irritation / inflammation if left on the animal’s coat. There is also a risk of causing blistering to the lips and gums if the cat or cat eats it. Try to remove any material using water and gentle pressure; do not use solvents, as these may be too toxic for cats. Seek veterinary treatment.

Herbicides

Keep cats way from areas where these substances are being used or sprayed; make sure they do not have access to open containers of herbicides. Keeping fresh drinking water available at all times will prevent the need for cats to find other sources of liquid to drink to quench their thirst. Keep your cats’ coats clean and free from any of these compounds, taking care to wash off any detergent used to remove the poison, many cats have been poisoned through licking the detergent/compound used to wash off the original poison. Seek immediate veterinary advice if you suspect your cat has been exposed to any herbicide.

House Plants

There are hundreds of plants including houseplants, which are potentially poisonous to our cats and cats. To list them all would be too numerous, so we have included some common toxic varieties. However the number of reports of actual animals becoming seriously ill from eating plants is more infrequent than form being poisoned by household products or drugs. The best advice is to contact your vet if you are concerned if your cat has eaten them. Preventing them from eating plants when they are young is the best deterrent.

Poinsettias, ivy and mistletoe are dangerous plants and their toxic potential is dangerous, however they very rarely cause signs of illness if your cat eats them.

The Japanese Yew, otherwise known as Yew, Spreading English Yew or Canada Yew is an exotic ornamental plant and it is extremely poisonous. Your cat only need to eat 1/10th of 1% of it’s own bodyweight to obtain a toxic dose. The toxin found in the Yew is an alkaloid and will suppress the electrical activity of the heart. Clinical signs include: incoordination, tremors, diarrhoea and collapse.

The Araceae Family, which include the common names: Tuberous begonia, wax begonia, water plant, peace lily, etc are house plants which contain compounds called oxalates. These oxalates can accumulate in various internal organs of the animals bodies which in turn can release chemical into the system which may cause an allergic reaction. Fortunately the plant does cause pain and irritation on chewing.

The Rhododendrons, including lily of the valley, laurel, azalea, foxgloves etc all contain cardiac glycosides, drugs which are used in the treatment of heart disease in humans and animals, digitalis is derived from the foxglove plant. Cats or cats ingesting these plants may be at risk. Signs include: Vomiting, diarrhoea, collapse or possibly death from heart failure.

The Nightshades, including Chinese lanterns, Christmas cherry, ornamental pepper all contain toxins called solanines, which may affect either the brain or the stomach. Different toxins are presenting different plants. Solanines affecting the stomach will produce clinical signs such as: vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. Soloanines affecting the brain will produce clinical signs such as increased dribbling, drowsiness, weakness, trembling, difficulty in breathing and collapse.

Human Medicines

Although a majority of pharmaceutical drugs used in the human field are very similar if not the same for use in our animals it is recommended to always keep all medicines prescribed for human and animal use away and out of reach of our cats. Saying this, many medicines that are routinely used in humans are extremely toxic to our cats if given in even the tinniest of quantities. Likewise never treat your animals with medicines prescribed for yourself or other animals in the household. Return any unused medicines to your vet or pharmacist. Seek immediate veterinary attention if you suspect your cat has taken any unprescribed medicines.

Insecticides

See ‘Carbamates’ and ‘Organophosphates’

These compounds will have an affect in disrupting the nervous system; they cause an excess of the chemical acetylchlorine to accumulate in the body, which in turn affects the normal transmitting of nerves. As always, emergency veterinary care should be sought if you suspect your cat or cats have been exposed to these substances. There are also many other compounds used in insecticide, which are also potentially poisonous to our cats, including arsenic, pyrethrins, and chlorinated hydrocarbon compound. Keep cats way from areas where these substances are being used, sprayed or put on bait; make sure they do not have access to open containers of insecticides. Keeping fresh drinking water available at all times will prevent the need for cats to find other sources of liquid to drink to quench their thirst. Keep your cats’ coats clean and free from any of these compounds, taking care to wash off any detergent used to remove the poison, many cats have been poisoned through licking the detergent/compound used to wash off the original poison. Seek immediate veterinary advice if you suspect your cat has been exposed to any insecticide.

Kerosene

See ‘Petrol’

Laburnum

See ‘HousePlants’

Lead

Small animals are occasionally seen with clinical signs of lead poisoning. They can be split into two types of lead poisoning, those who have ingested a large quantity, who will present with relatively quick clinical signs and those who have ingested small quantities of lead over a long period of time. Lead can be found in old toys, painted with older paint containing lead, curtain weights, fishing weights, lead shot, batteries or motor oil/linseed oil.

Clinical Signs: Vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, pain in the abdomen or neurological signs including, blindness, circling, tremors, dizziness.

Medicines – For human or animal use

See ‘Aspirin’ and ‘Paracetamol’

Although a majority of pharmaceutical drugs used in the human field are very similar if not the same for use in our animals it is recommended to always keep all medicines prescribed for human and animal use away and out of reach of our cats. Saying this, many medicines, which are routinely used in humans, are extremely toxic to our cats if given in even the tinniest of quantities. Likewise never treat your animals with medicines prescribed for yourself or other animals in the household. Return any unused medicines to your vet or pharmacist. Seek immediate veterinary attention if you suspect your cat has taken any unprescribed medicines.

Metaldehyde

Metaldehyde is a Molluscicide used to kill slugs – Slug pellets are very attractive to dogs, Keep dogs way from areas where these substances are being used; make sure they do not have access to open containers and dispose of any opened containers after use.

Clinical Signs: Anxiety, fever, increased respiratory rate, dribbling, spasms and muscle tremors.

Methiocarb

Is a Molluscicide used to kill slugs – Slug pellets are very attractive to cats, Keep cats way from areas where these substances are being used; make sure they do not have access to open containers and dispose of any opened containers after use.

Clinical Signs: Anxiety, fever, increased respiratory rate, dribbling, spasms and muscle tremors.

Molluscicides

Slug pellets are very attractive to cats. Keep cats way from areas where these substances are being used; make sure they do not have access to open containers and dispose of any opened containers after use.

Clinical Signs: Anxiety, fever, increased respiratory rate, dribbling, spasms and muscle tremors.

Mouse poison

Rodenticides are classified according to the their ingredients and the way they act upon their intended target, examples include the anti coagulant poisons, such as wafarin, which acts upon the targets blood clotting mechanism, strychnine which acts upon the nervous system and produces symptoms such as incoordination, seizures, neck stiffness and cholecalciferol which can cause heart failure. See list of individual ingredients. It is recommended to keep all of your cats away from any rat/ mouse poison or bait when it is laid down or stored. Cover the poison over to stop larger animals accessing it. Even if you are advised that the poison is not palatable to cats, beware, our cats have very strange tastes and will consume the most unpalatable of substances. Likewise keep your cat away from any dead or dying rodents as they also may be inadvertently poisoned. Also see individual ingredients.

Nicotine

See ‘Cigars & Cigarettes’

Oil

See ‘Acrolein’

Organochlorines

See ‘Carbamates’ and ‘Organophosphates’

These compounds are used in insecticides and will have an affect in disrupting the nervous system; they cause an excess of the chemical acetylchlorine to accumulate in the body, which in turn affects the normal transmitting of nerves. As always, emergency veterinary care should be sought if you suspect your cat or cat has been exposed to these substances. Keep cats way from areas where these substances are being used sprayed, put on bait; make sure they do not have access to open containers of insecticides. Keeping fresh drinking water available at all times will prevent the need for cats to find other sources of liquid to drink to quench their thirst. Keep your cats’ coats clean and free from any of these compounds, taking care to wash off any detergent used to remove the poison, many cats have been poisoned through licking the detergent/compound used to wash off the original poison. Seek immediate veterinary advice if you suspect your cat has been exposed to any insecticide.

Organophosphates

See ‘Carbamates’ and ‘Insecticides’

These compounds will have an affect in disrupting the nervous system; they cause an excess of the chemical acetylchlorine to accumulate in the body, which in turn affects the normal transmitting of nerves. As always, emergency veterinary care should be sought if you suspect your cat or cat has been exposed to these substances. Keep cats way from areas where these substances are being used sprayed, put on bait; make sure they do not have access to open containers of insecticides. Keeping fresh drinking water available at all times will prevent the need for cats to find other sources of liquid to drink to quench their thirst. Keep your cats coats clean and free from any of these compounds, taking care to wash off any detergent used to remove the poison, many cats have been poisoned through licking the detergent/compound used to wash off the original poison. Seek immediate veterinary advice if you suspect your cat has been exposed to any insecticide.

Clinical Signs: Abdominal disorders, including vomiting/diarrhoea, pain, loss of appetite, muscular tremors / incoordination, increased dribbling, difficulty in breathing, paralysis, convulsions, coma, and death.

P - Z List of cat poisons

Paint

See ‘Lead’

Paracetamol

See ‘Human Medicines’

Paracetamol is a drug normally given to humans for the treatment of pain. Although a lot of drugs used today in human have been tested and are licensed for use in our animals, there are still a lot of drugs that can be harmful if we use them in our cats. Paracetamol, even if given in small doses can prove fatal in our cats, cats are particularly sensitive to paracetamol. Keep all drugs bought or prescribed for human use, away from your cats. Only give medication under the direction of your veterinary surgeon.

Clinical Signs: Vomiting, not eating, dull, incoordination, convulsions.

Petrol / Paraffin oils Kerosene / diesel / white spirit

Kerosene/petrol/diesel fuel/white spirit. If in contact with the cat or cat’s skin can cause skin irritations. If your cat or cat licks the fluid can cause dribbling, vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle tremors/twitching and convulsions. If your cat or cat inhales the vapours it can cause degrees of respiratory irritation, muscular twitching, dilated pupils and convulsions, leading to death. Keep your cat away from all containers containing these fuels, while using these oils and always clear up spillages quickly.

Paraquat

…is a substance found in herbicides. Keep cats way from areas where these substances are being used or sprayed; make sure they do not have access to open containers of herbicides. Keeping fresh drinking water available at all times will prevent the need for cats to find other sources of liquid to drink to quench their thirst. Keep cats’ coats clean and free from any of these compounds, taking car to wash off any detergent used to remove the poison, many cats have been poisoned through licking the detergent/compound used to wash off the original poison.

Phenol

These include, tar, creosote, carbolic and pitch. Poisoning with these compounds will be identified by a distinctive odour, which can be detected on the cats skin, lips or other areas of the body. Phenols can be absorbed through the animals skin, so wash off any contaminant from the cats and cats skin with water and seek immediate veterinary attention. Keep all containers and spillages away from your cat.

Clinical Signs: Presence of distinctive odour, vomiting, abdominal pain, seizures, tremors, and respiratory failure.

Phosphorus

Phosphorus is an ingredient found in rat/mouse poison. It is recommended to keep all of your cats away from any rat/ mouse poison or bait when it is laid down or stored. Cover the poison over to stop larger animals accessing it. Even if you are advised that the poison is not palatable to cats, beware, our cats have very strange tastes and will consume the most unpalatable of substances. Likewise keep your cat away from any dead or dying rodents as they also may be inadvertently poisoned.

Pitch

See ‘Phenol’

Plants

Poinsettias, ivy and mistletoe are dangerous plants and their toxic potential is dangerous, however they very rarely cause signs of illness if your cat eats them.

The Japanese Yew, otherwise known as Yew, Spreading English Yew or Canada Yew is an exotic ornamental plant and it is extremely poisonous. Your cat only needs to eat 1/10th of 1% of it’s own bodyweight to obtain a toxic dose. The toxin found in the Yew is an alkaloid and will suppress the electrical activity of the heart. Clinical signs include: incoordination, tremors, diarrhoea and collapse.

The Araceae Family, which include the common names: Tuberous begonia, wax begonia, water plant, peace lily, etc are house plants which contain compounds called oxalates, These oxalates can accumulate in various internal organs of the animals bodies which in turn can release chemical into the system which may cause an allergic reaction. Fortunately the plant does cause pain and irritation on chewing, however persistent chewers through boredom or behavioural problems may be a risk.

Rat poison

Rodenticides are classified according to the their ingredients and the way they act upon their intended target, examples include the anti coagulant poisons, such as wafarin, which acts upon the targets blood clotting mechanism, strychnine which acts upon the nervous system and produces symptoms such as incoordination, seizures, neck stiffness and cholecalciferol which can cause heart failure. See list of individual ingredients. It is recommended to keep all of your cats away from any rat / mouse poison or bait when it is laid down or stored. Cover the poison over to stop larger animals accessing it. Even if you are advised that the poison is not palatable to cats, beware, our cats have very strange tastes and will consume the most unpalatable of substances. Likewise keep your cat away from any dead or dying rodents as they also may be inadvertently poisoned. Also see individual ingredients.

Rodenticides

Are classified according to the their ingredients and the way they act upon their intended target, examples include the anti coagulant poisons such as wafarin, which acts upon the targets blood clotting mechanism, strychnine which acts upon the nervous system and produces symptoms such as incoordination, seizures, neck stiffness and cholecalciferol which can cause heart failure. See list of individual ingredients. It is recommended to keep all of your cats away from any rat / mouse poison or bait when it is laid down or stored. Cover the poison over to stop larger animals accessing it. Even if you are advised that the poison is not palatable to cats, beware, our cats have very strange tastes and will consume the most unpalatable of substances. Likewise keep your cat away from any dead or dying rodents as they also may be inadvertently poisoned.

Slug Bait

See ‘Molluicides’

Snake Venom

See ‘Adder Bites’

Sodium chlorate

Is a herbicide. Keep cats way from areas where these substances are being used or sprayed; make sure they do not have access to open containers of herbicides. Keeping fresh drinking water available at all times will prevent the need for cats to find other sources of liquid to drink to quench their thirst. Keep your cats’ coats clean and free from any of these compounds, taking care to wash off any detergent used to remove the poison, many cats have been poisoned through licking the detergent / compound used to wash off the original poison. Seek immediate veterinary advice if you suspect your cat has been exposed to any herbicide.

Strychnine

Is a Rodenticides, which acts upon the nervous system and produces symptoms such as incoordination, seizures, neck stiffness. It is recommended to keep all of your cats away from any rat / mouse poison or bait when it is laid down or stored. Cover the poison over to stop larger animals accessing it. Even if you are advised that the poison is not palatable to cats, beware, our cats have very strange tastes and will consume the most unpalatable of substances. Likewise keep your cat away from any dead or dying rodents as they also may be inadvertently poisoned.

Tar

See ‘Phenol’

Thallium

Is an ingredient found in rat/mouse poison. It is recommended to keep all of your cats away from any rat / mouse poison or bait when it is laid down or stored. Cover the poison over to stop larger animals accessing it. Even if you are advised that the poison is not palatable to cats, beware, our cats have very strange tastes and will consume the most unpalatable of substances. Likewise keep your cat away from any dead or dying rodents as they also may be inadvertently poisoned.

Toadstools

Because of the large variety of mushrooms and toadstool around and the different variety of toxic fungi. Cats should be deterred from eating any species of fungi (mushroom and toadstools) If you suspect ingestion has occurred take along any remnants / samples of the variety of fungi to your vets, for immediate veterinary attention. Care must be take to use protective clothing if handling any suspected poisonous fungi.

Wafarin

Wafarin is an anti coagulant poison, which acts upon the targets blood clotting mechanism, It interferes with the animals ability to synthesise Vitamin K, which plays a vital role in the animals clotting mechanism, The body requires clotting to take place many times during the day and night and not just when the animal bleed externally, consequently, over a period of 3-5 days after eating wafarin, a major bleed may take place internally and clinical signs may include: dullness, weakness, pale mucous membrane (look at the gums) difficulty on breathing, nosebleeds, blood in the urine / faeces. If you suspect your cat or cat has eaten this type of poison, obtain treatment straight away, if caught early enough the animal can be given the appropriate treatment. It is recommended to keep all of your cats away from any rat / mouse poison or bait when it is laid down or stored. Cover the poison over to stop larger animals accessing it. Even if you are advised that the poison is not palatable to cats, beware, our cats have very strange tastes and will consume the most unpalatable of substances. Likewise keep your cat away from any dead or dying rodents as they also may be inadvertently poisoned.

Wasp stings

Occasionally cats that have been stung by wasps may go into severe shock and collapse (known as anaphylactic shock) if they are allergic to the sting. Immediate veterinary attention is required if this is the case. Likewise if the tongue is stung it will require emergency treatment to treat the swelling, which could block the animals’ airway. Common areas to be stung are the mouth if the cat tries to catch the insect or the paws, if the cat plays with a drowsy wasp. If the wasp sting is still present you can try and remove it with a pair of tweezers and antihistamine cream can be applied. If the cat is stung in the mouth bathe the area with a diluted solution of vinegar bicarbonate. Observe the area for signs of swelling or contact your veterinary practice if your cat is in great pain or distress.

Clinical Signs: Vomiting, diarrhoea, swelling, respiratory difficulties, collapse, death.

Zinc Phosphide

Zinc phosphide is an ingredient found in rat / mouse poison It is recommended to keep all of your cats away from any rat / mouse poison or bait when it is laid down or stored. Cover the poison over to stop larger animals accessing it. Even if you are advised that the poison is not palatable to dogs, beware, our dogs have very strange tastes and will consume the most unpalatable of substances. Likewise keep your dog away from any dead or dying rodents as they also may be inadvertently poisoned.