What to do if the cat is poisoned and does not eat or drink anything? - briefly
If your cat has been poisoned and refuses to eat or drink, immediately contact your veterinarian for advice and take your cat to the clinic as soon as possible. Do not attempt to treat your cat at home unless instructed by a professional.
What to do if the cat is poisoned and does not eat or drink anything? - in detail
If you suspect that your cat has been poisoned and is refusing to eat or drink, it is crucial to act promptly and decisively. Here are the steps you should follow:
First, identify the potential source of poisoning. Common household items that can be toxic to cats include human medications, plants such as lilies, antifreeze, rodenticides, and certain foods like chocolate, onions, and grapes. If you know what your cat has ingested, note down the details for the veterinarian.
Next, contact your veterinarian immediately or, if it's after hours, an emergency pet clinic. Time is of the essence in poisoning cases, so do not wait to see if symptoms improve on their own. Provide the veterinary staff with as much information as possible about what your cat might have consumed and any changes in behavior you have observed.
While waiting for professional help, monitor your cat closely. Look for signs such as lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, or difficulty breathing. If your cat is showing severe symptoms like convulsions or collapse, transport them to the veterinary clinic immediately, even if you haven't contacted the vet yet.
Do not attempt to induce vomiting without explicit instruction from a veterinarian. In some cases, such as with certain chemicals or oils, inducing vomiting can do more harm than good. However, if directed by your vet, you may use hydrogen peroxide (3% solution) to make your cat vomit. Administer 1 teaspoon for every 5 pounds of body weight, up to a maximum of 3 tablespoons. If no vomiting occurs within 15 minutes, do not repeat the dose without veterinary guidance.
Keep your cat calm and comfortable during this time. Place them in a quiet, dark room away from other pets and children. Provide a shallow dish of water if they are willing to drink, but do not force it. Offer their favorite food, but don't be alarmed if they refuse to eat.
Once you arrive at the veterinary clinic, provide the vet with all the information you have gathered, including what your cat might have ingested and any symptoms observed. The vet will likely perform a physical examination and may recommend diagnostic tests such as blood work or urinalysis to determine the extent of poisoning.
Treatment for poisoning can vary depending on the substance involved. It may include administering activated charcoal to absorb toxins, providing intravenous fluids to maintain hydration, or giving specific antidotes if available. In severe cases, your cat might require hospitalization and ongoing care.
After treatment, follow up with your veterinarian as instructed. Ensure that your home is safe from potential poisons by storing medications and chemicals out of reach and removing toxic plants. Educate yourself on common cat toxins to prevent future incidents.
By taking swift action and following these steps, you can significantly improve the chances of a successful recovery for your poisoned cat.