Rat Poison and Cats: Direct and Secondary Poisoning

Rat poison threatens cats two ways: eating bait directly, or eating poisoned rodents. Rat poison is toxic to cats and requires urgent veterinary care in every scenario.

Direct poisoning: eating bait

Rodenticides contain anticoagulants, bromethalin, or cholecalciferol — each works differently but all are dangerous. Bait stations may look like toys. Block baits are often coloured blue or green.

Secondary poisoning: eating poisoned rodents

Outdoor hunters who catch slow, sickly rodents may ingest accumulated poison. Symptoms can be delayed days to weeks depending on the active ingredient.

Symptoms to watch for

• Anticoagulants: bleeding, bruising, pale gums, blood in urine
• Bromethalin: seizures, paralysis, tremors
• Cholecalciferol: vomiting, kidney failure, increased thirst