Could a Mouse Kill Your Cat?

Though a small mouse or rat may seem harmless enough to your cat or dog, they could inadvertently kill it. With the formulation of improved chemical methods of exterminating rodents has come the risk of secondary poisoning for our pets.

A rodenticide or rat poison, is a chemical that is used in various forms to cause a fatal type of internal bleeding after it has been ingested. It is not unusual to find rats and mice even in the nicest of neighborhoods. As more people crowd together, these vermin find easy meals in our homes, garages and yards. Mousetraps and sticky paper traps are often distasteful to dispose of. An easy alternative is a bait that is purposely flavored to be attractive to these rodents. The problem lies in the fact that they are also tasty to our cats and dogs. Hiding the bait in attics, behind appliances and out of the way places doesn't guarantee that a nosey pooch won't find it and make a deadly meal out of it. Another problem is that a rat that has been poisoned by these chemicals does not die suddenly. This makes it an easy target for a cat hunting for a natural snack. The new generation of rodenticides has become so toxic, that a pet eating a sickened prey, will also succumb.

The signs of intoxication can be very subtle and come on gradually. It may take 7 to 10 days for the first evidence of illness to appear. Lethargy, vomiting and diarrhea may be all that you see. You may notice a sudden nosebleed, very dark stool or what appears to be coffee grounds in the vomit. These can all signify internal bleeding. If there is a history of rat bait in or around your home, immediately get your pet and the suspected poison to your veterinarian for immediate lab tests and supportive care. This condition is treatable. Seek professional assistance because it is "Your Pet…Health Matters."