What Is Poisonous To Cats and Kittens?

As a kitten owner, you want to do everything possible to keep your furry friend healthy and happy. One important aspect of this is being aware of what can be poisonous to cats and kittens. While there are many things that can be harmful to kittens, in this article, we will focus on food, plants, and common household items that are toxic to these little creatures.

What things are harmful to kittens?

There are many foods, plants, and household items that are toxic to kittens. Among the most common are chocolate, onions and garlic, milk, lilies, aloe vera, poinsettias, toothpaste, medications, cleaning products, and essential oils.

Food that is Poisonous to Cats and Kittens

Kittens are known to have a curious nature, which can sometimes lead them to eat things they shouldn’t. It’s important to keep in mind that some foods that are safe for humans and other animals can be toxic to cats and kittens. Here are a few examples:

1. Chocolate – Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to cats and kittens. Even small amounts of chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, seizures, and death.
2. Onions and Garlic – Onions and garlic contain compounds that can damage a cat’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. While a small amount of onion or garlic powder is unlikely to be harmful, it’s best to avoid feeding these foods to your kitten altogether.
3. Grapes and Raisins – These fruits contain an unknown toxin that can cause kidney failure in cats and kittens.
4. Alcohol – Even small amounts of alcohol can be dangerous for cats and kittens. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, coma, and death.
5. Milk – While many people think that milk is good for cats and kittens, it can actually cause digestive problems, including diarrhea.
6. Bones – While cooked bones may seem like a tasty treat for your kitten, they can actually be very dangerous. Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or damage to the digestive tract.

Plants that are Toxic to Cats and Kittens

Cats and kittens are known to be curious creatures, and they may explore their surroundings by chewing on plants. However, many common household plants can be poisonous to cats and kittens. Here are a few examples:

1. Lilies – Lilies are highly toxic to cats and kittens. Ingesting even a small amount of the plant can cause kidney failure.
2. Aloe Vera – Aloe Vera contains a substance called saponin, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy in cats and kittens.
3. Poinsettias – While poinsettias are often associated with the winter holiday season, they can be toxic to cats and kittens. Ingesting the plant can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
4. Ivy – Ivy plants contain compounds that can cause digestive upset, breathing difficulties, and in severe cases, coma, and death.
5. Azaleas and Rhododendrons – These plants contain toxins that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, coma, and death.

Well, why would you put all this tasty stuff here if you didn’t want me to eat it? I really don’t understand my humans sometimes. #KittyBuffet #GreenStuffIsYummy #SneakySnacksAreMyWeakness #NeverTooFullToTrySomethingNew

Joey

Read also: Why Is My Kitten Biting and Dragging My Blanket?

Common Household Items that are Poisonous to Cats and Kittens

While it’s important to be aware of toxic foods and plants, there are also many common household items that can be harmful to kittens. Here are a few examples:

1. Toothpaste – Toothpaste can be poisonous to cats and kittens if ingested in large amounts. Toothpaste typically contains a variety of ingredients that can be harmful to cats, including fluoride, xylitol, and other chemicals. Ingesting toothpaste can cause digestive upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, can lead to organ damage or even death. (Read also: Should I Brush My Cat’s Teeth?)
2. Medications – Many medications that are safe for humans can be toxic to cats and kittens. This includes over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin and ibuprofen, as well as prescription medications.
3. Cleaning Products – Many cleaning products contain chemicals that can be harmful to cats and kittens. This includes bleach, ammonia, and many other common household cleaners.
4. Essential Oils – While essential oils are often used for their therapeutic properties, many of them can be toxic to cats and kittens. Ingesting or inhaling certain essential oils can cause respiratory problems, vomiting, and in severe cases, liver damage.
5. Batteries – Batteries contain chemicals that can be harmful to cats and kittens. If ingested, batteries can cause burns to the mouth and throat, and in severe cases, can cause damage to the digestive tract.
6. Cigarettes – Tobacco smoke can be harmful to cats and kittens, just as it is to humans. Ingesting cigarettes or cigarette butts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, coma, and death.
7. String and Yarn – While string and yarn may seem like harmless toys for your kitten to play with, they can actually be very dangerous. If ingested, string and yarn can cause digestive problems and can even become tangled in the intestines, leading to a life-threatening condition known as a bowel obstruction.

Symptoms Of Poisoning In Cats and Kittens

Sometimes your kitten can get into things without you knowing (shocking, right?). As a result, you may not know immediately if there’s cause for concern. Here are some common symptoms of poisoning in kittens to keep an eye out for:

1. Vomiting
2. Diarrhea
3. Lethargy or weakness
4. Loss of appetite
5. Seizures
6. Tremors
7. Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
8. Pale or yellow gums
9. Collapse or unconsciousness
10. Jaundice
11. Increased heart rate
12. Incoordination or difficulty walking
13. Excessive drooling
14. Burns or sores around the mouth
15. Abdominal pain or discomfort

It’s important to note that not all of these symptoms may be present, and some poisons may cause specific symptoms that are not listed here.

What to Do if Your Kitten Ingests Something Toxic

If you suspect that your kitten has ingested something toxic, it’s important to act quickly. Symptoms of poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, difficulty breathing, and seizures. Here are a few steps you should take if you think your kitten has ingested something toxic:

1. Call Your Vet – The first thing you should do is call your vet. They will be able to advise you on what to do next and may ask you to bring your kitten in for treatment.
2. Know What Your Kitten Ingested – If possible, try to identify what your kitten ingested. This will help your vet to determine the best course of treatment.
3. Do Not Induce Vomiting – While inducing vomiting may be appropriate in some cases, it can be dangerous in others. Your vet will advise you on whether or not to induce vomiting.
4. Keep Your Kitten Calm – If your kitten is experiencing symptoms of poisoning, it’s important to keep them calm and quiet. Stress can exacerbate symptoms and make the situation worse.

Preventing Poisoning in Kittens

Preventing poisoning in kittens is the best course of action. Here are a few steps you can take to keep your furry friend safe:

1. Keep Toxic Foods Out of Reach – Make sure that any toxic foods are stored in cabinets or on high shelves that your kitten can’t reach.
2. Choose Safe Plants – If you want to have plants in your home, make sure they are safe for cats and kittens.
3. Store Cleaning Products Safely – Make sure that cleaning products are stored in cabinets or on high shelves that your kitten can’t reach.
4. Keep Medications Locked Up – Make sure that medications are stored in a locked cabinet or on high shelves that your kitten can’t reach.
5. Keep Hazardous Materials Out of Reach – Batteries, cigarettes, and other hazardous materials should be stored in a place that your kitten can’t access.

Conclusion

As a kitten owner, it’s important to be aware of what can be toxic to your furry friend. Foods, plants, and common household items can all be harmful to kittens, and it’s important to take steps to prevent poisoning from occurring. By taking preventative measures and knowing what to do in the event of an emergency, you can help keep your kitten safe and healthy. Remember to always consult your veterinarian if you suspect your kitten has ingested something toxic.