Cat Poisoning Symptoms

If your cat is exposed to a toxin, they can develop gastrointestinal upset, liver or kidney damage, skin irritation, or anemia.¹ As a cat owner, it’s important to know how to recognize cat poisoning symptoms and be able to determine when your furry companion needs medical attention.

In this article, we’ll discuss symptoms of cat poisoning, some common culprits of cat poisoning, and how cat insurance could help you cover treatment costs.

You can also get 24/7 assistance by calling the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center hotline at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661.

Signs of Cat Poisoning

Cat poisoning symptoms are often sudden, but delayed symptoms can also occur. The symptoms will vary depending on the type of poisonous substance and the way your cat was exposed to it, and it can include gastrointestinal, neurological, respiratory, and behavioral symptoms.¹

The most common symptoms of poisoning in a cats are:^1,2

• Tremors
• Excessive drooling
• More coughing and sneezing than normal
• Depression
• Weakness
• Difficulty breathing
• Lack of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting

If your cat has been poisoned through their skin, they might show signs of irritation. Your cat may develop a rash or experience extreme itchiness, which could cause them to scratch the affected area.¹

What to do if your cat has been poisoned

Take your cat to the vet right away if they have consumed a toxic substance, or you notice that they’re exhibiting any of the cat poisoning symptoms listed above.

If possible, take a sample of the substance your cat has ingested so the veterinarian can identify exactly how to treat your cat. If your emergency vet is unreachable, you can call these hotlines for assistance:

• ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center hotline: (888) 426-4435
• Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

What Can Cause Cat Poisoning?

There are numerous items both inside and outside the home that could lead to poisoning in a cat. In addition to consuming known poisons like the ones listed in the next section, cats may also suffer from poisoning if they drink from contaminated water sources or eat prey (such as mice) that have been previously poisoned.³

Cats may also ingest poison during grooming if they have previously rubbed up against a poisonous substance that left residue on their coat.³

Household Items That Can Be Dangerous for Cats

There’s a chance you have many items around your house that are toxic to your cat. Be sure to keep these substances out of paws’ reach:^4,5

• Antifreeze fluid
• Pesticides
• Insecticides
• Rat poison
• Human antidepressants
• Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and other over-the-counter (OTC) human medications
• Bleach
• Grapes
• Chocolate
• Alcohol

The following plants are also poisonous to cats:⁶

• Azaleas
• Rhododendrons
• Bird of paradise
• Hydrangeas
• Buttercups
• Lilies
• Oleander
• Peace lily
• Pothos
• Tulip and narcissus
• Wisteria
• Aloe

Even a small amount of certain toxins could be dangerous, so contact your vet if you think your cat has come into contact with any of these.

MetLife Pet Insurance Can Help You With Cat Poisoning Costs

Many cats are curious by nature and can get into things they shouldn’t. Take Teddy the kitten, for example. Teddy’s pet parents took him to the emergency vet when he started showing signs of poisoning. The vet visit cost about $1,200, and they got nearly $1,100 back through their MetLife Pet policy.⁷

Ready to take the next step in protecting your pet? Get a quote today and have coverage for accidents — like cat poisoning — tomorrow.