What should be done if a cat has eaten a poisoned mouse at home? - briefly
Immediately contact a veterinarian or an animal poison‑control hotline, giving details of the poison involved. Do not induce vomiting or administer any treatment without professional guidance, and monitor the cat for signs of toxicity.
What should be done if a cat has eaten a poisoned mouse at home? - in detail
If a cat ingests a rodent that has been treated with poison, prompt action is essential.
First, determine the type of toxin involved. Common rodenticides include anticoagulants, bromethalin, and cholecalciferol; each requires a specific treatment protocol. Information can be obtained from the product label, the packaging, or the veterinarian.
Second, contact an emergency veterinary clinic immediately. Provide details about the cat’s weight, the estimated amount of poisoned mouse consumed, and the identified toxin. The veterinarian may advise inducing emesis only if the ingestion occurred within a short time window and the toxin is not contraindicated for vomiting. Induction should be performed under professional guidance, using an approved emetic such as hydrogen peroxide at a dosage of 1 ml per 5 lb (2.2 kg) body weight, not exceeding 3 ml total.
Third, arrange for the cat to be examined without delay. Diagnostic steps typically include:
- Blood work to assess coagulation status, liver and kidney function, and electrolyte balance.
- Imaging (e.g., radiographs) if the mouse is still present in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Specific toxin assays when available.
Treatment may involve:
- Administration of vitamin K₁ for anticoagulant exposure, with dosing adjusted according to coagulation test results.
- Intravenous fluids to maintain hydration and support renal clearance for bromethalin or cholecalciferol toxicity.
- Anticonvulsants if neurologic signs develop.
- Activated charcoal to bind residual toxin, given within one hour of ingestion.
Fourth, monitor the cat closely at home for delayed symptoms. Signs to watch for include:
- Lethargy, weakness, or collapse.
- Bleeding from gums, nose, or puncture wounds.
- Seizures, tremors, or uncoordinated movements.
- Excessive thirst, urination, or vomiting.
Record any changes and report them to the veterinarian promptly.
Finally, implement preventive measures to avoid recurrence. Secure all rodent control products in locations inaccessible to pets, use bait stations designed to exclude cats, and consider alternative, non‑toxic pest management methods. Regular inspection of the home for trapped rodents and immediate removal of any dead or incapacitated prey will reduce the risk of accidental ingestion.