Toxins All Cat Owners Need to Know About

Cats are curious creatures who like to explore.

Since cats are — as a whole at least — much less mischievous than most dogs, many cat owners give their furry friends the full lay of the land without restriction. But, before you do, it’s important to cat-proof your home by removing anything that could be toxic or dangerous for your cat to ingest. However, what’s toxic to your cat may not always be obvious to every cat owner, and to keep your cat safe, it’s important to know what is toxic to them. That’s why our veterinarian in Carroll Gardens has come up with this list of toxins that all cat owners need to know about.

#1. Medication

Cats don’t metabolize medication the same way that people or even dogs do, and even small amounts of certain medications can be incredibly dangerous for cats. Acetaminophen (Tylenol), for example, is one of the most common medications found in any given medicine cabinet, but just one tablet could be deadly for a cat. Here are a few other medications to watch out for:

  • Antidepressants
  • Cold medicine
  • Diet pills
  • Cancer medications
  • NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen)
  • Supplements and vitamins

Some medications made for humans may also be safe for cats, but you should NEVER give your cat any medication without first talking to your veterinarian.

#2. Plants

Plants can be a godsend for anyone living in the city, and there are so many benefits to having household plants around. Studies have shown that having plants around helps to ease stress, improve indoor air quality, improve moods and so much more. However, some plants can also be dangerous for our feline friends, so before you go out and buy a bunch of plants to decorate your home, know which ones can be harmful to your cat:

  • Lily
  • Tulip
  • Aloe
  • Mistletoe
  • Azalea
  • Poinsettia
  • Chrysanthemum
  • Rhododendron

Cats are excellent climbers, and they have been known to chew on leaves, so unless you are 100-percent sure that your cat won’t be able to get to the plant, don’t take a chance with any of the above plants in your home.

#3. Foods

Does your pet look up at you with adorable, begging eyes every time you sit down to eat? If so, don’t give in to their begging, no matter how cute or pathetic they might appear while they’re doing it. The fact of the matter is that there are many different human foods that are toxic to cats, and unless you know for a fact that something isn’t toxic for your cat, you shouldn’t take the chance. Here are a few of the most common people foods that are toxic to cats:

  • Caffeine
  • Alcohol
  • Raisins
  • Yeast dough
  • Chives
  • Onions
  • Grapes
  • Garlic
  • Chocolate
  • Xylitol (commonly found in sugar-free toothpaste, candy and gum)

Not only should you avoid giving your cat human food because much of it is poisonous for them, but people food can also make your cat gain an unhealthy amount of weight, putting them at risk for diabetes and other health problems.

There are so many things that can be toxic to your cat, and in order to keep them safe, you need to know what they are! In our next blog, we’ll be going over the last few toxins to cats, as well as what you should do if you think your cat has ingested something toxic, so make sure that you stay tuned to learn more.

If you have questions or concerns, or your cat needs veterinary assistance, please contact us! Our new animal hospital is conveniently located in Carroll Gardens, and it’s equipped with everything we need to provide your cat with next-level care. We look forward to hearing from you!