Pet Health Articles
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Toad poisoning occurs when a cat is exposed to toxins secreted by certain species of toads, most commonly the cane toad and the Colorado River or Sonoran desert toad. Licking or ingesting one of these toads can cause life-threatening signs and immediate treatment is required.
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Cats, with their curious nature, may fall victim to poisoning within the home. Cats' small size, lack of ability to metabolize certain drugs, and their tendency to hide symptoms when ill, make their poisoning less obvious compared to dogs and may also delay treatment.
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Too much vitamin A can lead to poisoning. Vitamin A poisoning most commonly occurs when pets are fed raw liver, cod liver oil, or other supplements rich in vitamin A over several weeks to months. It takes a long time for signs of vitamin A poisoning to develop. If a cat ingests a large dose, they may quickly develop vomiting, drowsiness, irritability, and peeling skin.
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Vitamin D poisoning occurs when a cat ingests a toxic dose of vitamin D. Common sources of vitamin D poisoning include rodenticides that contain vitamin D3 and certain human medications. The effects of vitamin D poisoning can last many weeks to months.
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Zinc is an essential mineral needed for DNA production, growth, wound healing, and immune function. Since zinc is not made in the body, it must be consumed in the diet. The body requires very small amounts of zinc and ingesting too much can cause poisoning.