Feb 17 2009
How to protect your cat from toxins
Cats are wonderful and intelligent. They also are mischievous, loving, have a mind of their own and are prone to getting themselves in trouble. Things we see and use everyday can be extremely toxic to our feline friends.
Certain Plants can be very toxic if ingested. Some cause symptoms such as: swelling in mouth, staggering and collapse. While others can cause: vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, or cramps, tremors, respiratory problems and even convulsions. With some plants, only the leaves or berries are poisonous while with some plants, the entire plant is toxic.
Here is a list of some of the known toxic plants. Keep in mind it is not a complete listing. Aloe, Amaryllis, Avocado, Boston Ivy, Caladium, Chinaberry tree, Cyclamen, Daffodil, Dieffenbachia, Dracaena, Elephant’s ear, English ivy, Holly, Hyacinth, Hydrangea, Iris, Jerusalem cherry, Kalanchoe, Lily of the valley, Mistletoe, Morning glory, Mother-in-law plant, Oleander, Philodendron, Pothos, Sago Palm, and Yew.
It is best if you have any of this plants, switch to a non-toxic variety like: African violet, Baby Tears, Bamboo, Boston fern, Catnip, Creeping Charlie, Crepe myrtle, Jasmine, Rose or try silk flowers. Both you and your cat will be much happier in the long run.
Antifreeze is highly toxic to cats as well as dogs. This chemical poisons many animals and even small children each year. It can be fatal. Antifreeze has a sweet flavor, which makes it attractive to cats and dogs. Cats can also be affected if they walk through antifreeze and then lick their paws. It only takes a very small amount to be fatal.
Antifreeze made out of “Propylene glycol is advertised to as being less toxic than regular antifreeze. However, if enough is ingested it can still be fatal. As a result, it should not be trusted.
If you think your cat may have gotten into antifreeze, take it to your veterinarian immediately. Signs, which occur in the first few hours, are as follows: staggering, seizures, extreme thirst, excessive urination and vomiting. If not treated the toxin will result in kidney failure and death.
The vet will perform blood and urine tests, which will confirm antifreeze poisoning if no symptoms have shown. If vet is sure cat has ingested antifreeze, he can give the cat a drug to prevent the liver from converting the antifreeze to its toxic components. The drug is not effective if symptoms are already showing. If it has been a few hours, the vet will induce vomiting and give charcoal to bind the antifreeze in the intestine and prevent it being broken down by the liver.
To prevent antifreeze-poisoning keep all antifreeze in a sealed, leak proof container. Take used antifreeze to a service station to be disposed of instead of pouring on the ground. Also, watch for puddles in your driveway or garage that could indicate an antifreeze leak in your car. Clean any puddles as quickly as possible.
Chocolate is also highly toxic to cats. The unsweetened baking chocolate can be especially toxic. It contains higher levels of the toxic element “Theobromine” than semi-sweet and milk chocolate do. However all chocolate can cause toxic reactions. It stimulates the central nervous system and cardiovascular system, increases blood pressure and causes nausea and vomiting.
Christmas is a time to watch your cat also. Tinsel and mistletoe are big villains. Also, don’t forget about the chemicals you put in your Christmas tree stand. They can also be toxic.
Keep your furry friends safe and enjoy their companionship.
