Things Poisonous To Cats
Always remember that cats are highly sensitive to many things. Always use caution when using chemicals, medications or placing houseplants in the environment. Many of the things that are poisonous/toxic or cause serious problems in your cat are listed below.
In and Outside Your Home
- Human medications and vitamins including all prescription and over-the-counter medications, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, aspirin, and cold and flu medications and others.
- Household products used for cleaning and disinfecting such as lysol, pine sol, pine oil, undiluted bleach, rubbing alcohol, corrosives, lime scale remover, drain cleaners, solvents, fabric softeners, oven cleaner, air fresheners and liquid potpourri.
- Nicotine in tobacco, as well as phosphorus in matches, match boxes and books, fireworks and flares.
- Lead that can be found in paint, linoleum, pipes, fittings, etc.
- Insect repellent and killers not for use directly on cats, as well as mothballs.
- Antifreeze
- Poisons and chemicals used to eliminate or repel insects and animals.
- Dewormers not intended for cats or not administered correctly.
- Petroleum based products such as oils and gas.
- Fertilizers, cocoa beans mulch, moldy compost.
- De-icing salts
Foods That Can Be Harmful
- Chocolate and coffee in all forms
- Onions and garlic in any form
- Grapes and raisins
- Avocados
- Raw yeast dough
- Tea leaves
- Macadamia nuts
- Salt
- Too much fat can cause liver problems
- Xylitol sweetener
- Alcoholic beverages
- Moldy or rotten foods
Prey
- All reptiles and amphibians that excrete toxins to repel predators, the most deadly of which include the Florida Marine Toad, the California Newt, and the Colorado River Toad found in both the Southwest and Hawaii.
- Some types of snakes, spiders and scorpions can be deadly. Any swelling or evidence of a bite should receive veterinary attention immediately. If possible, bring the offending biter with you so quick identification can be made.
- Any rodent that has ingested poison can be lethal if eaten by your cat.
Plants
- There are hundreds of plants that are considered toxic to cats. Always be sure to consider your cat’s health when choosing the plants for your home and garden. A few of the most common, in alphabetical order, are:
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- For additional information on plants toxic to cats, please see Cats.About.com