Mouse and rat poison are dangerous to cats

Mouse and rat poison, though aimed at rodents, can also be dangerous for cats. If your cat ingests these poisons directly or indirectly, they could suffer serious health issues. Knowing what to do if your cat is exposed to these poisons can save their life.

How cats get exposed to rat and mouse poison

Although poisoning is less common in cats than in dogs, it can happen. Cats are usually more selective eaters, making direct poisoning rare. However, cats often ingest poison indirectly by eating rodents that have already consumed it. This secondary poisoning may pose a lower risk than direct ingestion but can still harm your cat’s health.

Cats are more vulnerable if they consume multiple poisoned rodents or a large rodent carrying a high amount of poison. Breeds that are avid hunters or cats with access to outdoor areas are more at risk. Indoor cats are typically less exposed to these dangers.

Symptoms of rat or mouse poisoning in cats

Signs of poisoning vary based on the type of poison ingested. If your cat has ingested anticoagulant poisons (the most common type in rodent control), symptoms usually appear within 3-5 days and may include:

• Lethargy
• Pale gums or mucous membranes  
• Bleeding from the nose or gums  
• Bloody stool or vomit  
• Difficulty breathing (if bleeding in the lungs) 
• Bruising or bleeding under the skin

These symptoms occur because anticoagulant poisons stop blood from clotting properly, causing internal and external bleeding.

If your cat has ingested poisons with alphachloralose, symptoms can appear more rapidly and include:

• Seizures or tremors  
• Excessive salivation  
• Unsteadiness or loss of coordination  
• Unconsciousness 

Treatment options for poisoned cats

Anticoagulant poisoning

If your cat has ingested anticoagulant poison, Vitamin K can work as an antidote. Vitamin K helps restore blood clotting function, reducing the risk of bleeding. However, if bleeding has already started, your cat may require a blood transfusion in addition to Vitamin K therapy.

Treatment usually involves daily Vitamin K doses over several weeks. A vet will conduct follow-up blood tests to ensure your cat’s blood clotting ability returns to normal.

Alphachloralose poisoning

Alphachloralose poisoning doesn’t have an antidote, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms. Supportive care at the vet may include fluids, medications to control seizures, and close monitoring.

Prompt medical intervention can help cats recover, but the prognosis depends on the amount of poison ingested and the speed of treatment.

Preventing poisoning in cats

While it may be challenging to prevent your cat from catching rodents, there are steps you can take to minimise their risk:

1. Use cat-safe rodent control options  

Some products are designed to be less harmful to pets. Look for poisons labelled as "pet-safe" or choose humane traps that don't use poisons.

2. Be cautious with poison placement

If you do have to use rodent poison, place it in areas inaccessible to your cat, such as inside walls or secured bait stations that only rodents can reach.

3. Keep your cat well-fed  

Cats are less likely to hunt if they’re well-fed. Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet for your cat can help reduce hunting behaviour.

FAQs about rat and mouse poisoning in cats