Rodenticide poisoning

Some rat poisons are toxic to cats because they contain an anticoagulant that causes internal bleeding. Toxicity occurs a lot more frequently when the cat consumes the bait rather by ingesting contaminated prey. Farm cats that will ingest a large number of prey are at high risk.

Clinical signs occur about 2-5 days after ingestion and are characterized by generalized hemorrhages, nose bleeds, pale mucous membranes, external hematomas, anorexia, weakness, bloody stools and difficulty breathing. Internal hemorrhages can lead to sudden death.

In-clinic testing can reveal prolonged coagulation time. Blood samples can also identify which type of poison has been ingested but results are usually not received in time to make a difference in treatment.

When the cat is presented within a few hours after ingestion, but before the first clinical signs, it is possible to induce vomiting and give activated charcoal to prevent intestinal absorption. The specific antidote is vitamin K1. The duration of treatment is poison specific so if possible the poison package should be brought in for reference.

If the cat is already displaying clinical signs, do not induce vomiting as this could enhance bleeding in the digestive tract.

Depending on where the bleeding occurs, many treatments are possible such as oxygen administration, intravenous fluid therapy and blood transfusions. Vitamin K1 is always prescribed.

Prognosis is excellent when the cat is treated before onset of clinical signs. After signs, prognosis is guarded to good.

Dr. Isabelle Lacombe d.v.m.

BIBLIOGRAPHY : Luiz, JA et Heseltine, J. Five common toxins ingested by dogs and cats. Compendium on Continuing Education for Veterinarians 2008 : 30 : 578-587.

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