Recently, I treated a 2 year old kitty for ingestion of naproxen (Aleve). Her owner accidentally dropped a pill and the cat immediately ate it. What would you do? Luckily, this owner called us to ask. Naproxen is highly toxic to cats and can permanently destroy the kidneys as well as cause life threatening bleeding ulcers. Quick treatment helped save this kitty, but I couldn't help but think, how many other kitties don't get treatment because owners just don't know the risks. Below are the 10 most common cat toxic exposures. If your cat is exposed call us immediately. Every minute makes the difference between life and death.
 

 1. Dog permethrin insecticides

• Topical flea and tick products that carry permethrin can cause seizures with in 2-72 hours of exposure. Always check carefully to make sure the product you are using is safe for cats. Never use any product with permethrin, phenothrin, or etofenprox. If your cat is accidentally exposed immediately bathe them with Dawn dishwashing liquid. If seizures have already begun, do not bathe, get your pet to the veterinarian immediately. Uncontrolled seizures can cause serious brain damage in addition to dangerously high fevers. 

2. Other topical insecticides

• Other topical flea and tick preventatives that do not contain permethrin can still cause topical skin reactions as well as increased salivation. Always follow label directions when using. Applying more of the product will not improve its effectiveness, but it will increase the risk of side effects. If your cat develops hair loss or sores at the application site, wash the area with Dawn dish detergent and call your veterinarian. Excessive salivation is often caused by bitter taste from licking the product. Offer a little tuna water or milk to help remove the product from their tongue. When in doubt always report side effects to your veterinarian.

3. Venlafaxine (AKA- Effexor)

• This commonly prescribed human antidepressant can readily be eaten by cats. Once ingested it can cause vomiting, rapid heart rate and respiratory rate, as well as difficulty walking. Signs occur with in hours of ingestion. Immediate treatment by a veterinarian is needed.

4. Glow Jewelry and sticks

• This popular summer time jewelry contains an oily liquid that tastes very bitter. Most cats will not ingest a toxic dose, but even a small amount causes increased salivation, agitation, and vomiting. Offering a tasty treat like milk or tuna fish can help remove the bad taste. Remove any remaining liquid from the fur. This can be found by taking the cat to a dark room as the liquid will glow.

5. Lilies

• Even eating a small amount of lily leaves or petals can cause rapid kidney failure. The most common lilies cats will ingest are stargazer, tiger, Asiatic, and oriental lilies. After ingestion many cats will vomit with in a few hours, however, the toxin is still in the system. Cats may appear to initially improve, only to rapidly deteriorate with in 24 hours. If you suspect your cat may have ingested ANY amount of lily go to your veterinarian or veterinary emergency clinic immediately. Aggressive therapy is necessary to save your pet's life and time is of the essence.

6. Liquid potpourri

• These popular household fragrances can have chemicals that cause serious burns to the mouth, esophagus, and stomach. Never induce vomiting as it can make these signs worse. Cats may need to be hospitalized for fluids and nutritional support until the burns heal and they can eat on their own again.

7. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS)

• These popular over the counter and prescription pain meds are not tolerated well by cats. Even small doses can cause permanent kidney damage and serious gastrointestinal bleeding. The most commomly ingested NSAIDS in cats are carprofen, ibuprofen, deracoxib, naproxen, etodolac, meloxicam, and indomethacin. Seek immediate medical care for your cat if you suspect ingestion.

8. Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

• This NSAID is often given to cats by owners trying to treat pain. Unfortunately this medication is extremely toxic and will destroy the red blood cell's ability to move oxygen around the body. This condition is called methemoglobinemia. Clinical signs include depression, vomiting, brown gums, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face and paws. Seek immediate veterinary care for your pet, don't wait and see. The longer your pet goes with out treatment the greater the risk of death.

9. Rodent poisons

• When these products are used, cats can directly ingest them as the pellets are very tasty. They can also be exposed by eating a rodent (mouse/rat) that has eaten the poison. Immediate treatment is needed to prevent uncontrolled bleeding.

10. Amphetamines

• In people these drugs can be used to suppress appetite, treat ADD, narcolepsy and illegal preparations such as ecstasy, When cats are exposed they can develop agitation, high fevers, seizures, fast heart rate with low blood pressure, coma, and death. Immediate medical attention is needed if your pet is exposed. Your veterinarian needs to know what form your pet was exposed to in order to save them. 

I hope this information helps you keep your four legged family members safe. If you have any questions, please call.

 Dr. Carrie Harness