If a cat has eaten mouse poison, what should I do? - briefly
If a cat has swallowed rodenticide, call a veterinarian or emergency animal poison‑control line immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless directed, and provide the poison’s label to the professional.
If a cat has eaten mouse poison, what should I do? - in detail
When a cat consumes rodenticide, prompt action is critical to prevent severe toxicity.
First, determine the type of poison. Anticoagulant baits (e.g., brodifacoum, bromadiolone) cause delayed bleeding; neurotoxic or metal‑based products (e.g., bromethalin, zinc phosphide) produce rapid neurologic or gastrointestinal collapse. Identifying the formulation, if possible from the packaging or label, guides emergency treatment.
Immediate measures
- Remove the cat from the contaminated area to avoid further exposure.
- Check the mouth for visible residue; if present, gently wipe with a damp cloth, avoiding forceful suction.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinarian explicitly instructs it; some poisons become more harmful when expelled.
Professional assistance
- Contact an emergency veterinary clinic or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center without delay. Provide details: product name, amount potentially ingested, time elapsed, and the cat’s weight and age.
- Follow the expert’s instructions precisely; they may advise bringing the animal in for decontamination, activated charcoal administration, or specific antidotes.
Veterinary interventions
- For anticoagulant exposure, administer vitamin K1 (phytonadione) orally or intravenously, typically for several weeks, accompanied by plasma transfusions if severe bleeding occurs.
- Neurotoxic or metal‑based poisons may require intravenous lipid emulsion therapy, supportive fluids, and seizure control with benzodiazepines or phenobarbital.
- Continuous monitoring of clotting times, liver enzymes, renal function, and neurologic status guides ongoing treatment.
Preventive steps
- Store all rodent control products in secured, inaccessible containers.
- Use bait stations that restrict access to non‑target animals.
- Consider alternative, non‑chemical pest management methods in households with pets.
Time is the most decisive factor; each minute of delay reduces the likelihood of a successful outcome. Immediate consultation with a veterinary professional and adherence to their protocol constitute the optimal response.