What should I do if my house cat ate a mouse? - briefly
Check the cat for signs of distress—vomiting, lethargy, abdominal pain, or unusual behavior—and verify that the prey was not contaminated with parasites. If any abnormal symptoms develop, contact a veterinarian immediately.
What should I do if my house cat ate a mouse? - in detail
When a domestic cat swallows a captured rodent, immediate assessment and appropriate actions are essential to prevent health complications.
First, observe the cat for signs of distress. Look for vomiting, excessive drooling, coughing, labored breathing, lethargy, or abnormal stool. Any of these symptoms warrants prompt veterinary consultation.
Second, evaluate the mouse’s condition before ingestion. If the rodent was alive and possibly diseased, the risk of parasite transmission or bacterial infection increases. Even if the mouse appeared healthy, internal injuries such as intestinal blockage remain possible.
Third, contact a veterinarian without delay. Provide details: cat’s age, weight, health history, and description of the mouse (size, apparent health). The professional may recommend:
- Physical examination to detect abdominal pain or obstruction.
- Diagnostic imaging (radiographs or ultrasound) to identify foreign material.
- Laboratory tests for parasites, bacterial pathogens, or toxin exposure.
- Treatment plan, which may include anti‑parasitic medication, antibiotics, fluid therapy, or surgical intervention if blockage is confirmed.
Fourth, follow post‑visit instructions meticulously. Administer prescribed medications on schedule, monitor appetite and elimination, and restrict access to potential prey. Maintain a clean environment to reduce the likelihood of future encounters with rodents.
Finally, implement preventive measures: secure food storage, seal entry points, use traps or professional pest control, and provide enrichment toys to satisfy hunting instincts without exposing the cat to live prey.
By adhering to these steps, the risk of complications diminishes and the cat’s recovery is supported.