Cats are particularly vulnerable to toxins due to their liver's limited ability to metabolise many substances. Knowing what is toxic and what to do is essential.
Top Causes of Cat Poisoning
- Lilies — ALL lily species. Even small amounts cause fatal kidney failure in cats
- Permethrin — in many dog flea products. Highly toxic to cats even in tiny amounts
- Paracetamol (acetaminophen) — one tablet can kill a cat
- Essential oils — tea tree, eucalyptus, peppermint, citrus (especially via diffusers)
- Antifreeze (ethylene glycol)
- Grapes and raisins
- Ibuprofen and aspirin
Symptoms
- Drooling, foaming at the mouth
- Vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
- Blue or yellow-tinged gums
- Seizures
- Collapse
- Jaundice (yellow eyes or skin) — sign of liver toxicity
Emergency Action
- Remove the cat from the toxic substance
- Do NOT induce vomiting in cats — it can cause additional harm
- Call your vet or emergency animal poison control immediately
- Bring the product packaging with you
The Lily Warning
If a cat has had any contact with lilies — eating petals, leaves, pollen, or even drinking water from a vase — this is a life-threatening emergency. Go to an emergency vet immediately.