How to Treat a Cat That Eats Poisonous Plants
Cats are known to nibble on household and outdoor plants. While this is usually harmless, some household and outdoor plants may be toxic to cats. Some plants will make a cat feel sick while others are toxic enough to kill the cat. There is a fairly large list of plants that are potentially toxic to cats; it is wise to play it safe and assume a plant is toxic.
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Instructions
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Identify the plant. It will help your veterinarian decide the toxicity level if you are able to give him this information.
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Call your veterinarian or call the ASPCA 24-Hour Pet Poison Control hot line at 888-426-4435.
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Take your cat to the veterinarian or a local pet emergency clinic if possible. Bring the poisonous plant or a leaf of the plant with you.
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Induce vomiting if you are unable to get to a veterinarian. Add 3 percent hydrogen peroxide (a formulation readily available at drugstores) to a medication syringe, 1 teaspoon per five pounds of weight (up to three teaspoons). Give every 10 minutes by inserting syringe into the cat's mouth and releasing into the back of the cat's throat until it begins vomiting. Repeat only three times.
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Tips & Warnings
Cats often eat plants and grasses to force vomiting---possibly to eliminate hairballs. If you notice your cat eating a plant, offer it some wheat grass as a substitute.
Do not induce vomiting if your cat has already vomited, is unconscious or has swallowed something besides the plant such as a chemical or sharp object.
