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Other Poisons and Hazards to Cats
MedicinesMany medications we use for ourselves with little thought are poisonous to cats. Never give any drug you aren't sure about. Even small doses of aspirin can be harmful to cats. Tylenol and many other pain killers are extremely toxic. Automotive ProductsAny liquid that comes out of a car is poisonous to cats. If you leave brake fluid, oil, gasoline etc. on the garage floor, cats will step in it, clean themselves, and get sick. Antifreeze tastes sweet and because cats like the flavor they frequently drink enough to cause fatal poisoning. Antifreeze deserves special mention because even a very small amount can be rapidly fatal to pets. Household ProductsCats are sensitive to many cleaning products. When you mop the floor or clean in the bathroom, let surfaces dry before letting your cat back into the room. Use only soap and water to wash out the litter box, and rinse well. Do not expose cats to PineSol, Hexol or cleaners that contain ingredients with "phenol" in their chemical names. There are safe alternatives to these products. Although PineSol is not hazardous when you completely rinse and dry the item or area, it is best to not expose your cat. InsecticidesMost insecticide problems come from over-treatment with flea control products or using products not recommended for use on cats. Pyrethrin is such a poison. Even natural products can cause problems if the preparation is too strong for use on cats. Always read the full label to know what you are using on or around your cat. Sensitivity can easily be avoided by using one of the newer flea products available from veterinarians, but if your cat becomes suddenly ill after you spray, dust or apply drops for fleas, gently wash her with a gentle shampoo and warm water. Flea Control over-use problems rarely need any treatment other than bathing, but if you see more pronounced symptoms like heavy salivation or jerking movements, immediate attention is required. Garden ChemicalsAnother danger to cats are garden chemicals like slug pellets and creosote, which are particularly harmful to cats and all wildlife. Always read instructions on packets and try to use chemicals that state they are non-toxic to pets, or better still garden organically! Many chemical fertilizers are tasty to cats, but can cause poisoning. Rat PoisonEven cats who are picky about their food may eat rat poison, just for a change. We don't have good antidotes for some of the newer rodenticides, and the only way to prevent poisoning is to put rat bait where pets can't reach it. Rattlesnake BitesAlthough cats become quite ill and need veterinary attention, adult cats nearly always survive a rattlesnake bite. Cats can actually help reduce the rattlesnake problems around your home by lowering the rodent population. Spider Bites, Bee Stings Etc.Cats ordinarily react to stings with mild discomfort and a little swelling, but much more severe and even life threatening reactions sometimes happen. If you notice breathing difficulty, seek immediate veterinary attention. Most of the fatal cat poisonings are caused by antifreeze or Tylenol.It goes without saying that if one of your cats shows signs of poisoning take it to the vet immediately. If you know the possible cause, take the chemical packaging or some of the plant with you. Try to make your home and garden a safe haven for all its four legged and two winged inhabitants and visitors.
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