Poisoning in Scottish Fold Cats: What You Need to Know
Cats are sensitive animals, especially to substances processed through the kidneys. Many everyday items can be highly poisonous to cats. If you suspect your cat has been poisoned, contact a veterinarian immediately—early treatment can save your cat’s life. Bring the container or product with you if possible, so the vet knows exactly what was ingested.
Common Poisons for Cats: What Every Cat Owner Must Know
🌸 Lilies
Never keep lilies in a household with cats. All members of the lily family, including lily-of-the-valley, are extremely toxic. Every part—flowers, leaves, roots, and bulbs—can cause kidney failure, sometimes with fatal results. If your cat even tastes lilies, get them to a veterinarian immediately.
💊 Paracetamol (Acetaminophen)
Human painkillers are lethal to cats. Even half a tablet can be fatal. Symptoms include:
Swelling of the face
Wobbliness
Rapid breathing
Brown-colored blood
Immediate veterinary care is essential if ingestion is suspected.
🚗 Ethylene Glycol
Found in car coolants, washer fluids, and brake fluids, ethylene glycol is extremely toxic. Cats are often poisoned by licking it from their fur. Symptoms include:
Vomiting
Lethargy
Wobbliness
Increased thirst
Prevention: Use products containing propylene glycol instead, which are safer for pets.
🐀 Rat Poison
Cats are less likely than dogs to eat rat bait directly, but hunting cats may ingest poisoned rodents. Symptoms vary depending on the type of poison:
Pale gums and inner bleeding
Bloody vomiting and diarrhea
Unconsciousness or abnormal heart rhythm (with newer alpha-chloralose poisons)
Quick veterinary treatment greatly improves recovery chances.
🍫 Chocolate (Theobromine)
Cats are very sensitive to theobromine. Poisoning is rare, but possible. Symptoms may appear up to 24 hours after ingestion and include:
Vomiting and diarrhea
Increased thirst
Hyperactivity
Rapid breathing
Muscle cramps
There is no antidote; treatment focuses on symptom management.
🧄 Onions and Garlic
All members of the allium family are toxic to cats. They can damage red blood cells, causing anemia. Symptoms include:
Nausea
Vomiting and diarrhea
Pale gums
Early veterinary care can ensure a good chance of recovery.
⚠️ Key Takeaway: Cats are highly sensitive to many common foods, plants, and chemicals. Always keep dangerous substances out of reach, supervise curious kittens, and act immediately if you suspect poisoning.