As a cat owner, you must be aware of foods that can be poisonous to your feline friend. Cats are curious creatures and may try to eat something that isn’t good for them. And if you are unaware, you might even try to feed them things that can cause harm. This article will look at some different foods that are poisonous to cats so you can help keep them healthy. It will also discuss some of the things you can do if your cat does eat one of these foods.
What To Do If Your Cat Eats A Poisonous Food
Cats often like to sample things that they shouldn’t eat. Therefore, if your cat has eaten poisonous food, it is vital to act quickly. The first step is to call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. They will be able to give you specific instructions on what to do next. Sometimes, it may be necessary to induce vomiting or give your cat a shot of activated charcoal.
However, it is important not to treat your cat yourself, as this could worsen the situation. Instead, bring the container of the poisonous food with you so that the vet can identify the toxin and tailor the treatment accordingly. With prompt treatment, most cats will fully recover from poisonous food.
Foods That Are Poisonous To Cats
With the knowledge of what you can do if your cat eats poisonous food, it is also important to know what foods to avoid feeding your cat. Many of these may surprise you, as they are ordinary foods people eat without issue. Here are a few to be aware of:
Chocolate
You probably know that chocolate can be dangerous for dogs, but many people are unaware that it can also be poisonous to cats. The toxicity level of chocolate depends on the type of chocolate, with dark chocolate being the most dangerous. The active ingredients in chocolate, caffeine, and theobromine, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and even death in cats. Symptoms usually appear within six to twelve hours after ingestion and can last several days.
When a cat consumes chocolate, it reacts with their unique metabolism, causing the toxins to build up in their system faster than humans. So the best way to prevent chocolate poisoning in cats is to keep all chocolate products out of reach and never give them as treats.
Grapes and Raisins
Another surprising food on this list is grapes and raisins. While the exact mechanism by which they cause toxicity is unknown, it is thought that an ingredient in grapes and raisins transforms into a substance that is damaging to the kidneys. Grape or raisin toxicity symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, kidney failure may occur.
If your cat has ingested grapes or raisins, it is essential to seek veterinary care immediately. With prompt treatment, most cats make a full recovery. However, grapes and raisins can be fatal if left untreated, so it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid feeding them to your feline friends.
