Cat Poisoning Symptoms

Cat poisoning symptoms can be subtle, delayed, or easy to misread at first. A cat may show vomiting or drooling, but serious exposures can also cause tremors, weakness, seizures, breathing changes, or kidney and liver warning signs.

If your cat may have been exposed to a toxic plant, essential oil, medication, food, or household product, remove access to the item and contact a veterinarian or poison helpline quickly.

Symptoms to watch for

Common early signs

Vomiting
Drooling
Diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Hiding
Lethargy

Neurological warning signs

Tremors
Wobbliness
Seizures
Collapse
Unusual behavior
Weakness

Organ warning signs

Increased thirst
Urination changes
Yellow gums or eyes
Severe lethargy
Pale gums

When to call urgently

Do not wait for symptoms if your cat was exposed to lilies, essential oils, human medications, pesticides, cleaners, or an unknown substance. Call urgently if your cat has repeated vomiting, trouble breathing, tremors, seizures, collapse, pale gums, or major urination changes.

ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661