Hazardous Poisons to Cats
Poisons are an unfortunate risk to both companion cats and feral cats. Just as poisonings can be harmful to people, poisons can harm and even kill cats. Read our list of potential poisons and tips on how to protect your beloved companions.
Common poisons that cats can come in contact with:
Tips to prevent danger to cats:
In case of an accidental poisoning:
Common poisons that cats can come in contact with:
- Antifreeze
- Fertilizers
- Laundry detergents
- Household cleaners
- Human medications
- Essential oils
- Rat poisons
- Alcohol
- Coffee
- Yeast, unbaked doughs
- Onions
- Garlic
- Chocolate
- Raisins and grapes
- Many household plants (check out our list of poisonous plants)
Tips to prevent danger to cats:
- Search for alternatives: Try to use a natural fertilizers for your garden such as manure or kitchen scraps instead of fertilizer. Also buy all natural kitchen cleaning supplies that don’t contain harmful chemicals.
- Secure your hazards: Make sure food and supplies that are poisonous to cats are secured in containers that cats cannot penetrate or open. Remember cats are very smart and are good at getting into things they shouldn’t.
- Clean up any spills as soon as they occur.
- Monitor your outdoor colony. Unfortunately many people are still hostile towards feral cats and may try to intentionally poison your colony. Set a feeding schedule for your cats and watch your colony as they eat. Do not leave food unattended, especially overnight.
- Keep an eye out for neighbors or garages where leaking cars may be parked. Antifreeze smells and tastes sweet to cats, so make sure you don’t see any drip pans under nearby vehicles.
- Know your nearest emergency vet. Look up the closet emergency vet near your area in case your cat ingests poison and needs to be treated ASAP. Keep their phone number close by.
In case of an accidental poisoning:
- Call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. The number is available 24/7, 365 days a year. They also provide in depth lists of potential hazards on their website ASPCA.org.
- Call the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661. The number is available 24/7, 365 days a year. You can also search their database for different items and check the severity if ingested by cats PetPoisonHelpline.com.