Poisoning is a common occurrence in cats, who are generally more sensitive to toxins than dogs.
In fact, some products that are used on dogs, like certain types of flea preventative, can be toxic and even fatal to cats-- just another reason why it's so important to look into pet insurance plans for your cat. Just coming into contact with toxic substances can poison them.
There are symptoms to look for if you suspect that your cat has been exposed to a toxin. A change in cat behavior is often the fist sign that something is wrong.
Once a cat ingests or comes in contact with a toxin, symptoms may not show up right away. Some toxins may take 3 to 4 days to show any effects. The types of symptoms a cat will exhibit will depend on the toxin she has been exposed to. If your cat begins to display any odd symptoms, she should be taken to the vet immediately. Having pet insurance for your cat can help to reduce some of the costs associated with emergency vet visits.
A cat that has been poisoned may exhibit one or more of the following symptoms: lethargy or an overall sluggishness, vomiting, lack of appetite, difficulty walking or a staggering walk, seizure or difficulty breathing. If a cat has any of these symptoms, she should be seen by a veterinarian right away. Cat owners can sometimes overlook these symptoms and associate them with pet stress.
If you have witnessed or have evidence that your cat has gotten into a toxic substance, like pet medication, take action immediately. Even if she is exhibiting no symptoms of being poisoned, take her in.
Your veterinarian can take precautionary measures to lessen the effects of the poison on your cat.