will-cats-eat-rat-poison

Apparently, cats will eat rat poison. However, not deliberately or intentionally. It is simply because most rat poisons are presented in the form of attractive pet food. Rat poisons also have very inviting aroma to woo the prey. Actually, rat poisons are intended as baits.

When cats sneakily come in contact with any attractive ‘food-like’ items with great aroma, they mistake it for food. So, will cats eat rat poison? The simple answer is that cats will sure do out of ignorance and probably in curiosity.

 

What Are Rat Poisons?

Rats and most other rodents are very destructive in nature. They have been documented as having caused severe irreparable damages in some homes, supermarkets, factories, and malls. Many important documents like certificates, wills, and business agreements have been reportedly destroyed by rats. The negative traits of rats lead to the invention of rat poisons.

Rat poisons, or sometimes called rodenticides, are specially formulated chemicals that we use for the purpose of baiting and killing rats. These poisons are usually used in homes and apartments, stores, as well as holding halls. They are also used in warehouses or any other place where there is a presence of rats. The primary intention is to bait and kill the rats without any conceited human efforts. Majorly, rat poisons come in various categories, types, presentations, and potency.

 

Types Of Rat Poison And How They Affect Cats

There are different types of rat poison. However, they vary in their presentation as well as activities, and potency. Below are some of the commonly used rat poisons:

 

Activated Vitamin-D3 (Cholecalciferol)

The activity of this type is based on its ability to interact with the presence of calcium and phosphorus levels in rats to astronomically shoot up. This will change the body composition and damage the kidney.

The symptoms may not immediately manifest in the first 24 – 36 hours of ingestion. Signs include unrestrained thirst, weakness, sluggishness, excessive urination, loss of appetite, and death.

 

Bromethalin

This is very lethal when cats or rats ingest it. The reaction is slow and not noticeable within one or two days if the dosage is small.

Symptoms include depression and weakness, muscle tremors, ataxia, hyperthermia, hyperreflexia, and death.

 

Phosphides

This chemical triggers quick chemical reactions when the poison mixes with stomach acid. The result produces drooling, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, chock liver damage, stomach bloating, and a host of other organ damages, and death.

 

Formulations of Anticoagulants

A poison that falls under this category causes failure of the body system to form blood clotting. When this happens, internal bleeding (hemorrhage) sets in. This may take up to 5 days before the signs become apparent.

Coughing, weakness, breathing difficulties, and drowsiness are some of the initial symptoms. Later signs include vomiting, blood in urine and stool, external bleeding, and death if the cat is not helped.

 

Why Will Cats Eat Rat Poison?

Rats are smart, and to deal with them, we need some extra smartness. This is the mentality and approach that rat poison manufacturers take. So, you must ensure you present rat poison in a manner that rats find it attractive. It must have an inviting aroma of a typical food that rats like or is familiar with. Remember, rats don’t just jump on strange items.

That explains why rat or rodent poisons are usually called ‘baits.’ Rats will usually avoid strange and unfamiliar objects at first sight. This rare demonstration is known as ‘bait shyness or poison shyness. On the other hand, cats don’t demonstrate these restraints. They can eat anything that presents or offers a sweet aroma.

The natural aroma that comes with rat poisons makes them attractive and inviting to rats and; strangely to cats too. Careless handling of rat poison is hazardous. Of course, these poisons are usually purposed for rats. But unfortunately, some cats are caught up in the baiting hook. When you place rat poison on the rat tracks that are also accessible to cats, there is a likelihood that cats in the same area may fall prey.

Cats may eat rat poison if you leave them hungry and uncared for. This situation will make them eat anything on sight, including rat poison.

 

How To Prevent Your Cat From Eating Rat Poison

The first prevention step is to make sure that you don’t leave rat poison (or any poison at all) carelessly. Do not leave the poison on the floor or any other place that your cat can easily access. Cats are so sneaky and pretentious, so guide your cat if you must use rat poison.

Give your cat adequate attitudinal training. A well-trained cat may not eat anything on sight. If you train your cat to use only the materials that you dedicate to her, they will abide.

These include eating bowls, dedicated eating place, mats, beddings, and other things. In this case, they will stay clear when in contact with unusual things.

Also, feed your cat well. Cats may be tempted to eat anything as a result of starvation and malnutrition.

Lastly, if you must use rat poison, be vigilant about any suspicious of strange signs or behavioral changes in your cat. If you noticed any, take your cat to the vet. This may be a helpful step as the symptoms of eating rat poison may manifest in different ways.

 

What Do You If Your Cat Has Eaten Rat Poison?

If you suspect that your cat has inadvertently eaten rat poison by exhibiting one of the symptoms narrated above, it’s now time for help for your cat. The following are some steps to take.

  • It is now easy for you to identify and confirm the source of the poison.
  • Relocate your cat to a well-ventilated place.
  • Try to clean her of any residue of the poison that may still be clinging to her. This could include her fur, mouth, limbs, and coat.
  • Gently wipe with a soft towel soaked with warm water to remove the poison residue.
  • Call your veterinarian, or pet poison helpline if available. You can proceed with your cat to your usual vet.
  • Give a sample of the poison to your veterinarian or any other help personnel that first answers your distress calls. They will examine it and recommend the most appropriate remedy.

 

Conclusion

Let’s face it; with a cat in your house, I don’t think you have any use for rat poison. Remember, cats are natural rat hunters. Therefore, leave them to do their job.

This way, you will save yourself a lot of trouble if you follow some simple precautionary tips given above. Save time, money, your cat, and save yourself the stress. Don’t give room for your cat to eat poison.

 

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