CATS
Top five common toxicities for cats:
Over the counter drugs
- Asprin: Cats sensitive to this drug because they lack an enzyme (glucuronosyltransferase) in their bodies that metabolizes this drug.
- Treatment: If you find that your cat has ingested only one tablet, induce vomiting. Only induce vomiting if you have seen your cat ingest the substance and are sure of what it is. Induce vomiting by giving a teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide per 5 pounds of bodyweight but no more than 3 teaspoons total (On a syringe, one teaspoon equals 5mL or 5cc). Gently pat your cat’s belly and have your cat walk around to mix the contents in his/her stomach. Vomiting should occur within 15-20 minutes after administering hydrogen peroxide. After vomiting, immediately take your cat to your veterinarian for emergency treatment.
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Cats are extremely sensitive to this drug and one or two tablets can cause death.
- Treatment: If ingested within 2 hours, induce vomiting and immediately take your cat to your veterinarian for emergency treatment
- Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin): Cats are extremely sensitive to this drug and absorb it quickly.
- Treatment: If ingested within 2 hours, induce vomiting and immediately take your cat to your veterinarian for emergency treatment.
Methylzanthines
- caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline (coffee, tea, chocolate): If enough is ingested, can be lethal in cats.
- Treatment: If ingested within 2 hours, induce vomiting and immediately take your cat to your veterinarian for emergency treatment.
Ethylene Glycol
- Antifreeze: Cats like the smell and taste of this chemical and a small amount can be lethal.
- Treatment: If ingested within 2 hours, induce vomiting and immediately take your cat to your veterinarian for emergency treatment.
Metals
- Lead: Cats can lick their fur that has been contaminated with lead paint dust.
- Treatment: Contact your veterinarian immediately for emergency treatment.
- Zinc: Cats can ingest this by swallowing pennies minted after 1983 or zinc nuts (commonly found in transportation crates).
- Treatment: Contact your veterinarian for surgical removal of these objects and emergency care.
- Button batteries: Ingestion of these can cause esophageal damage and need to be removed immediately.
- Treatment: Contact your veterinarian immediately for emergency removal and treatment.
Pesticides
- There are many pesticides on the market.
- Treatment: Contact your veterinarian immediately for emergency treatment. Bring the box or container of pesticide with you so your veterinarian can administer the correct treatment.
DOGS
Top five toxins for dogs:
- Human medications (over the counter and prescription)
- Foods for humans (chocolate, xylitol, raisins, grapes, onions, garlic)
- Insecticides
- Rodenticides
- Dietary Supplements and Vitamins
Call your veterinarian immediately for advice on whether or not to induce vomiting and seek emergency treatment.
Pet Poison Hotlines
If you think your dog has eaten something toxic, take him to your vet or an emergency animal hospital immediately. You can call the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-800-213-6680 ($39 consultation fee) or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Central at 426-4435 ($65 consultation fee) for assistance 24 hours a day.
