What should be done if a cat ate a poisoned rat? - briefly
Call a veterinarian immediately and follow their instructions, which will likely involve bringing the cat in for emergency assessment. Do not induce vomiting or administer any medication without professional guidance.
What should be done if a cat ate a poisoned rat? - in detail
If a cat consumes a rodent that has been treated with poison, act without delay.
First, isolate the animal from food, water, and other pets to prevent further ingestion. Contact a veterinarian or an emergency animal poison control center immediately; provide details about the type of poison, amount possibly consumed, and the cat’s weight and age.
Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional. Some toxins cause additional damage when expelled, and improper attempts can lead to aspiration. If a veterinarian recommends it, follow their precise guidance on the method and timing.
When veterinary care is available, expect the following interventions:
- Administration of activated charcoal to bind residual toxin in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Intravenous fluids to maintain hydration and support kidney function.
- Antidotes specific to the poison (e.g., vitamin K1 for anticoagulant rodenticides).
- Monitoring of vital signs, blood clotting parameters, and organ function for at least 24‑48 hours.
- Supportive medication such as anti‑emetics, pain relievers, or antibiotics if secondary infection is suspected.
If the cat shows any of these signs, report them promptly: vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, difficulty breathing, bleeding from gums or nose, seizures, or abnormal bruising. Early detection of symptoms improves the likelihood of successful treatment.
After the acute episode, discuss with the veterinarian a preventive plan: secure rodent control methods that do not involve toxic baits, store any remaining poison out of reach, and regularly inspect the environment for hidden traps.
Document the incident, including the product label, dosage, and time of exposure, to aid future medical decisions and possible reporting to local animal health authorities.