My cat drank bleach, what should I do? - briefly
If your cat has ingested bleach, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary care. Call your vet or an emergency animal hospital right away and do not attempt to induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.
My cat drank bleach, what should I do? - in detail
If your cat has ingested bleach, it is crucial to act swiftly and decisively. Bleach contains sodium hypochlorite, which can cause severe irritation and damage to your cat's mouth, throat, and stomach lining. Here are the steps you should take:
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Do Not Induce Vomiting: Unlike some other substances, bleach should not be induced to vomit. The corrosive nature of bleach can cause further damage on the way back up.
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Rinse the Mouth: If possible, gently rinse your cat's mouth with water to dilute any remaining bleach. Be careful not to force water into your cat’s throat.
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Contact Your Vet Immediately: Time is of the essence. Call your veterinarian or the nearest emergency animal hospital immediately. Provide them with as much information as possible, including how much and when your cat ingested the bleach.
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Do Not Give Food or Water: Avoid giving your cat any food or water until instructed by a vet. This can help minimize further irritation to the digestive system.
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Keep Your Cat Calm: Try to keep your cat as calm and still as possible. Excessive movement can exacerbate the effects of the bleach.
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Prepare for the Vet Visit: Have a carrier ready or a blanket to safely transport your cat to the vet. Make sure you have the contact information of the nearest veterinary clinic handy.
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Monitor Symptoms: While waiting for veterinary care, monitor your cat for any signs of distress such as drooling, pawing at the mouth, difficulty breathing, or lethargy. If symptoms worsen, inform your vet immediately.
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Follow Veterinary Advice: Once at the vet, follow their instructions strictly. They may administer activated charcoal to help absorb the bleach, provide IV fluids to flush out the system, or perform endoscopy to assess and treat internal damage.
Ingestion of bleach is a serious matter requiring prompt professional intervention. By taking swift action and following these steps, you can increase the chances of your cat's recovery.