What should be done if a cat eats a poisoned mouse at home, and what symptoms may appear? - briefly
Call a veterinarian immediately and bring the cat for assessment; if professional help is delayed, induce vomiting only under veterinary guidance and bring the poison container for identification. Watch for drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, lethargy, or abnormal heart rate as potential signs of toxicity.
What should be done if a cat eats a poisoned mouse at home, and what symptoms may appear? - in detail
If a cat swallows a mouse that has been treated with rodenticide, act without delay. Remove any remaining bait, isolate the animal, and prevent further ingestion of food or water until professional guidance is obtained.
Contact a veterinarian or an emergency animal poison‑control center immediately. Provide the following details: type of poison (if known), amount ingested, time elapsed since exposure, cat’s weight, age, and any pre‑existing health conditions. Follow the expert’s instructions precisely; they may advise induced vomiting, administration of activated charcoal, or direct transport to a clinic.
Potential clinical signs vary with the toxin class:
- Anticoagulant rodenticides (e.g., warfarin, bromadiolone): bruising, nosebleeds, blood‑tinged saliva, pale gums, rapid breathing, lethargy, weakness.
- Neurotoxic agents (e.g., bromethalin, zinc phosphide): tremors, seizures, loss of coordination, drooling, difficulty walking, abnormal eye movements.
- Metal phosphides: vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing, collapse.
- Calcium channel blockers: low heart rate, low blood pressure, weakness, fainting.
Observe the cat continuously for any of these manifestations. Record the onset time and progression of symptoms, then relay the information to the veterinary team. Do not attempt home remedies such as inducing vomiting unless specifically instructed by a professional, as improper techniques can cause additional injury.
After initial treatment, the veterinarian may prescribe vitamin K1 (for anticoagulant exposure), anticonvulsants (for neurotoxic effects), or supportive fluids and oxygen therapy. Follow the prescribed medication schedule, attend all re‑check appointments, and keep the cat in a quiet, stress‑free environment during recovery.