What should you do if a cat eats a poisoned mouse? - briefly
Call a veterinarian right away and follow their guidance, bringing the cat in for urgent assessment; do not attempt home treatments such as vomiting induction unless specifically directed by the professional.
What should you do if a cat eats a poisoned mouse? - in detail
If a cat has swallowed a rodent that was treated with poison, immediate action is essential. First, determine whether the mouse was poisoned and, if possible, identify the toxin. Common rodenticides include anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin‑type compounds), bromethalin, and strychnine; each requires a different treatment approach.
Contact a veterinarian or an emergency animal poison control center without delay. Provide details: cat’s weight, time since ingestion, suspected poison, and any observable symptoms. Do not attempt home remedies or induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional, as some toxins (e.g., bromethalin) can cause additional damage if vomited.
While waiting for guidance, keep the cat calm and confined to prevent further exposure. Monitor for signs such as:
- Lethargy or weakness
- Bleeding from gums, nose, or rectum (anticoagulant exposure)
- Seizures, tremors, or loss of coordination (neurotoxic agents)
- Excessive drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea
If veterinary care is available, the clinician may administer:
- Activated charcoal to bind ingested toxin (if within the appropriate time window).
- Specific antidotes: vitamin K1 for anticoagulant poisoning, supportive therapy for bromethalin (e.g., intravenous fluids, seizure control).
- Blood transfusions or plasma to address severe coagulopathies.
After treatment, follow the veterinarian’s recommendations for observation period, repeat blood work, and any necessary follow‑up appointments. Record the incident details for future reference and adjust household pest control practices to eliminate the risk of poisoned prey.