The Campus Safety Office maintains this guide for students and staff. It is a general overview, and is not exhaustive. Please talk to a veterinarian about your own cat.
Plants
- Lilies. True lilies and daylilies are extremely toxic to cats. Even a small amount of pollen, or water from a vase, can cause serious kidney damage. If a cat has touched or eaten any part of a lily, contact a vet immediately.
- Many other plants are also poisonous, including sago palm. Check a reliable list before bringing a new plant into the home.
Food and drink
- Chocolate, onions, garlic and chives, alcohol, caffeine and raw bread dough can all be harmful to cats.
- Cats should not be given milk as a routine drink, since many cannot digest it well. Fresh water is best.
Medicines
- Never give a cat human medicines, including paracetamol (acetaminophen) and ibuprofen. They can be seriously toxic. Always ask a vet first.
Around the house
- String, thread, ribbon, tinsel and hair ties can cause dangerous blockages if swallowed. Put them away after use.
- Some essential oils and cleaning products are harmful to cats. Keep them stored and ventilate rooms after use.
- Check washing machines, dryers and cupboards before closing them. Cats love a warm, enclosed place.
- Make sure that windows and balconies have secure screens or are otherwise safe.
Emergencies
- If you think a cat has swallowed something harmful, contact a veterinarian or an animal poison control service immediately. Do not try to make the cat vomit unless a professional tells you to.
- A cat that is struggling to breathe, has collapsed, is vomiting repeatedly, or is straining to urinate or unable to pass urine needs urgent veterinary attention.