E835
Toxic Substances, Plants, and Animals

Introduction: There are many things that are potentially toxic to pets. Numerous household items, such as chemicals, cleaners, medications, plants, and even some foods, can harm cats. In general, if something is bad for a person, it will also be dangerous for a pet. There are, however, some compounds that are safe for humans yet are toxic to animals. The best way to keep a pet safe is to assume that any product that is not known to be harmless is potentially dangerous, and steps should be taken to prevent any pet’s access to it. It is crucial to keep pets away from potential toxins, both inside and outside of the house.

Introduction: The following list of potential toxins does not contain all possible toxins for pets. There are hundreds of herbicides, insecticides, household compounds, cleaners, chemicals, poisons, and drugs that can make a pet very ill or cause death. Most reported poisonings in pets are in the categories of insecticides, plants, rodenticides, medications, and house and yard chemicals. This is a list of common poisons that are found in many homes:

1. Antifreeze: Ethylene glycol is extremely toxic to animals. It is the most common antifreeze used in cars and can also be found in de-icers and some photographic solutions. Consuming tiny amounts can lead to kidney failure and death. The liver breaks down the chemical into crystals that settle in the kidneys and cause severe kidney damage. Ethylene glycol has a sweet taste that attracts animals, so pets may actually chew into containers of antifreeze. Pets will even lick antifreeze off of the driveway if any leaks from a radiator or is spilled during work on a car. Even licking a small amount of antifreeze off the driveway is enough to make a pet very ill. Cats can be killed by consuming as little as 1-2 mL/kg of body weight. This means that a cat can potentially die from drinking less than one teaspoon of antifreeze.
   
   Clinical Signs: The initial symptoms of anti-freeze poisoning appear within 30-60 minutes after consumption. They include vomiting, excitement, tremors, staggering, thirst, depression, and trouble breathing. As the toxic crystals damage the kidneys, additional signs occur. These include loss of appetite, drooling, and inability to urinate. This progresses to weakness, delirium, convulsions, coma, and death.
   
   Diagnosis: Animals that have consumed ethylene glycol should be seen immediately by a veterinarian. This is an emergency situation that requires immediate treatment. Do not wait to see if signs develop. Diagnosis is based on the history of consumption of any amount of antifreeze, signs, physical examination, and certain diagnostic tests.
   
   Treatment: Do not attempt to treat this at home. The veterinarian will immediately start emergency procedures to prevent absorption of the chemical into the cat’s liver and kidneys. To recover, cats must be treated within hours of ingestion of antifreeze. Animals that are not treated immediately usually die of kidney failure resulting from the poisoning. Treatment may include steps to reduce absorption of the chemical, such as inducing vomiting, gastric lavage, and administration of activated charcoal. Pets seen immediately after intoxication can be treated with ethanol. Antizol-Vet, the antifreeze antidote for dogs, is not licensed for use in cats. Pets are maintained on intravascular fluid therapy and may be treated with thiamine.
   
   Prevention: Antifreeze poisoning can be prevented by making sure pets never have access to antifreeze. Closed containers of antifreeze should be stored out of reach of cats. Any spills or puddles should be immediately cleaned up. Open containers should never be left on the driveway when working on the radiator. Animals should be confined if open containers of antifreeze need to sit out for any length of time.
   
   If possible and recommended by the car manufacturer, purchase antifreeze that is advertised as safe for pets and contains propylene glycol instead of ethylene glycol. Although propylene glycol has been associated with toxicities in cats, including red blood cell and nervous system changes, it does not cause the fatal kidney damage associated with ethylene glycol.
   
   
2. Gasoline, Kerosene, and Motor Oil: Antifreeze is only one of the many compounds used in engines that is toxic to animals. Gasoline, along with petroleum distillates such as oil and kerosene, is poisonous if it is ingested, inhaled, or comes into contact with the skin. Gasoline removes the fats from the surface of the skin and can be absorbed across the skin into the body. It is also absorbed through the lungs. Animals that ingest these substances or have them spilled on their skin typically also inhale the fumes at the same time. Other common toxic petroleum distillates are paint thinner and charcoal lighting fluid.
   
   Clinical Signs: Signs of gasoline inhalation include flushing of the skin, muscle twitching, depression, dilated pupils, eye irritation, convulsions, confusion or delirium, and death. If the gasoline is ingested, the animal may drool, vomit, twitch, and have convulsions. Damage to the liver and kidneys may result in vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, and eventual death. Ingestion of oil or kerosene can cause vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, weakness, depression, and coma. Inhalation of any of these substances can rapidly lead to lung damage and pneumonia.
   
   Diagnosis: Diagnosis is based on physical examination, signs, and history of exposure. The owner may see the cat ingest the toxin or find a spilled can of gasoline and an animal that has gasoline or other toxic product on its skin.
   
   Treatment: Treatment for inhalation poisoning involves removing the animal from the source of the fumes. The animal should be brought into fresh air immediately. Substances should be removed from the skin if contact has been made. Do not induce vomiting if these products are ingested. Antidotes may include milk or egg whites. Veterinary care may include steps to reduce absorption, such as using activated charcoal, along with intravascular fluid therapy, oxygen, antibiotics to treat the pneumonia and skin infections, and supportive care. Animals that have inhaled or swallowed large amounts of gasoline may not respond to therapy.
   
   Prevention: Keep all fuels and petroleum distillates away from pets. Open containers should not be left unattended, and all containers should be sealed and stored in areas inaccessible to animals. Any spills should be cleaned up at once. Oil drained from automobiles should be properly disposed of immediately. Never leave pets with access to drained oil, kerosene, lighter fluid, or paint thinners.
   
   
3. Yard Chemicals: Insecticides, herbicides, and fertilizers can be extremely dangerous if consumed by pets. They contain a variety of chemicals that can be ingested directly from the containers. Poisoning can also occur if a cat walks through a recently treated area and then grooms itself. Insecticides account for approximately one-third of all reported animal poisonings. It is important to follow all label directions when using yard and lawn products. Keep empty bottles for a few days so that complete label directions are available in case of poisoning.
   
   Clinical Signs: The signs of poisoning depend on the chemical ingested. They can include loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, blood in the feces, depression, drooling, rear limb weakness, generalized weakness, respiratory distress, coma, and death. Long term reactions to poisoning can include anemia and changes in white blood cell numbers. Insecticides can also cause skin irritations if the pet walks across recently treated areas of the lawn or contacts undiluted product.
   
   Diagnosis: Diagnosis is based on the history of exposure, signs of poisoning, and examination. Owners may find a chewed-open bottle of product and a sick pet. Some poisonings can be confirmed with blood tests.
   
   Treatment: Treatment may not be helpful. Most chemicals do not have specific antidotes, so supportive care is given until the product is eliminated from the body. Treatment may include rinsing the chemical off of the animal, administering medications to prevent absorption or speed elimination of the product from the body, and symptomatic treatment to diminish the signs of illness. Hospitalization and intravenous fluid therapy may be needed. Some cases are fatal or result in chronic illness.
   
   Prevention: Prevention involves limiting pet access to all yard chemicals. Products should be properly diluted before applying to the yard. All manufacturers’ label warnings should be followed. Follow label recommendations regarding water application to recently treated areas. Pets should be kept off recently treated lawns. Make sure the lawn is dry and the product is absorbed before allowing the pet access to it. Keep cats indoors when yard chemicals are being used. Do not ignore the small warning flags placed on recently treated areas by lawn care companies. Keep pets off treated lawns in public areas or neighboring yards. Do not allow pets to play near or drink from run-off ponds or ditches that may contain high concentrations of yard chemicals. Do not allow cats to consume small insects that may have been killed by insecticides.
   
   
4. Cleaning Products and Batteries: All household cleansers should be considered dangerous to pets. Pets may sample open containers of liquids or drink from buckets of diluted cleaners. Kittens may try to play with cleaning buckets or mops saturated with cleaners. They may chew and swallow batteries.
   
   Clinical Signs: The signs of poisoning will depend on the product ingested. Batteries and many cleaners contain corrosive agents that burn any tissue they touch. Animals may have irritated, red, swollen areas around the mouth and throat. There may be vomiting, diarrhea, muscle twitching, weakness, difficulty breathing, and collapse.
   
   Diagnosis: Diagnosis is based on history of exposure, signs of illness, and physical examination. X-rays may help identify pieces of batteries in the gastrointestinal tract. Owners may find a chewed-open bottle of cleanser and an ill pet. Owners may observe their pet drinking from a bucket of diluted cleanser or chewing on batteries.
   
   Treatment: Although treatment cannot be accomplished at home, initial therapy may be started before traveling to the veterinary hospital. Do not induce vomiting. Do not administer any therapy or antidotes without first identifying the exact toxin and consulting with a veterinarian. Find the bottle of product that caused the poisoning and read the ingredient label. It is not enough to know that a product is a floor or toilet bowl cleaner; the exact chemical must be known to ensure proper treatment.
   
   Initial home therapy, after discussion with a veterinarian, may include flushing skin burns with water or administering a solution of egg whites in warm water for products that have been swallowed. Acids, such as batteries, may be treated with 15 mLs of milk of magnesia or 4 egg whites per quart of warm water. Ammonia and caustic alkaline products may be treated with egg whites in water, followed by a 1:4 solution of vinegar or lemon juice and water. Detergents should be rinsed off with soap and water if they are on the pet’s skin, or treated with milk, egg whites, and water if swallowed. Antidotes for bleach include milk, eggs, or milk of magnesia. It must be stressed again that it is of critical importance to confer with a veterinarian prior to administering any home remedy. No oral medications should be administered to an unconscious animal or one that cannot swallow. Improper therapy may exacerbate the problem and interfere with further treatment.
   
   Once at the animal hospital, the veterinarian may be able to administer neutralizing agents to control further irritation. Other treatments include intravascular fluid therapy, medications to control swelling and pain, antibiotics, wound therapy, and supportive care.
   
   Prevention: The pet’s access to these substances must be avoided. Bottles of cleansers should be kept in closed cabinets and out of the reach of pets. Diluted cleaning solutions should be disposed of as soon as possible, and buckets should be thoroughly rinsed and dried. Cleaning tools should be stored away from pets. Do not allow kittens and cats to play with or chase mops and brushes that are being used for cleaning. Batteries should be kept in closed containers, and old ones should be disposed of properly. Do not throw old batteries into wastebaskets where a pet may find them. Toilet bowl lids should be kept closed to prevent consumption of contaminated water from the bowl. Dishwashers should be kept closed to prevent ingestion of the detergents left in the dispensers. Pets should be kept off of any wet, recently cleaned areas to prevent exposure to active cleansers.
   
   
5. Anticoagulant Rodenticides: Rat and mouse poisons, called rodenticides, are extremely dangerous for pets. The poisons are designed to kill small mammals. Cats are simply larger mammals and may easily become ill from these poisons. Most rodenticides, including warfarin, fumarin, brodifacoum, and bromadiolone, work by interfering with the production of compounds called clotting factors. Without clotting factors, bleeding occurs with even the most minor of injuries. For example, rodents often bleed to death as a result of a simple bump that would normally cause a just a small bruise.
   
   Rodenticides are equally effective at causing internal bleeding in pets. Small amounts of rat poisons can be lethal. Several small doses consumed over many days can actually cause more severe poisoning than one large dose of poison, but even one dose of an anticoagulant rat poison can lead to massive bleeding. Depending on the actual rodenticide, less than 1 ounce of bait can poison a 10-pound cat. The consumption of rodents that have been killed by rodenticides can also cause poisoning. Cats may kill and consume poisoned rats or eat poisoned dead rodents. There have been reports of cats being poisoned after consumption of just one rat that has died from a rodenticide.
   
   Clinical Signs: The effects can take several days to be noticed. They can include bleeding under the skin, into the eyes, from the nose, near the gum line, or any other place on the body. The cat can pass blood in the urine, feces, or vomitus. The gums and sclera may look very pale. Weakness, changes in respiration, difficulty breathing, depression, and death can follow.
   
   Diagnosis: Animals that have consumed rat poisons or eaten poisoned rats should be brought immediately to the veterinarian. Because it will take several days for bleeding to be evident, do not wait to see if signs of poisoning appear. Diagnosis is based on physical examination, history of consumption of rat poison or poisoned rodents, and blood tests. Blood tests will include a complete blood count, along with coagulation profiles and specific clotting factor assays. It is critical for the veterinarian to know the exact rat poison to institute correct therapy.
   
   Treatment: Treatment is started immediately and depends on the type of rodenticide and the length of time that has passed since consumption of the poison. Cats that are seen immediately may be treated to reduce absorption by inducing vomiting and gastric lavage. After the rodenticide has been removed from the animal’s system, cats exposed to anticoagulants are treated with a specific type of vitamin K, vitamin K-1. Other types of vitamin K are not effective. Vitamin K-1 facilitates the production of the body’s clotting factors. Immediate treatment can prevent the need for weeks of continuous medication.
   
   Once symptoms occur, treatment is less successful and can take many weeks. Treatment of a cat that is bleeding may include blood transfusions and several weeks of vitamin K-1 therapy. Treatment of animals poisoned by newer, stronger anticoagulant rodenticides may not be successful. It is critical to bring the product label so that the veterinarian knows which bait has been consumed. The newer anticoagulant rodenticides may stay in the body for many weeks and require much more aggressive therapy than older, less potent products. Cats that have consumed the more potent anticoagulants should be treated with oral vitamin K-1 for a minimum of 4-6 weeks.
   
   Prevention: Rodenticide poisoning can be avoided by preventing consumption of rat poisons or poisoned rodents. The poison is often flavored or added to grain mixtures that attract both rodents and pets. The plastic or cardboard bait containers are easily torn open by even the youngest kittens. It is safest to totally avoid the use of these substances in households with pets. Humane live traps or spring loaded rodent traps that kill immediately should be used instead of rodenticides. Additional steps, such as keeping food sources in rodent-proof bins and cleaning food dispensers routinely, should be implemented to reduce rodent numbers.
   
   
6. Rodenticides That Do Not Contain Anticoagulants: There are other newer rodenticides that do not contain anticoagulants. These include cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) and a rapid acting single-dose poison called bromethalin. These poisons may cause severe damage to the nervous system, heart, liver, stomach, intestines, and kidneys. Blindness, coma, and death can also occur. There are no antidotes to these toxins.
   
   Older less commonly used rodenticides include strychnine, sodium fluoroacetate, and zinc phosphide. Sodium fluoroacetate is rarely used and only available to licensed, commercial pest control companies. Most strychnine baits available to the general public have been replaced with zinc phosphide. However, all three chemicals may occasionally be found and will cause severe poisonings. Ingestion of rodents killed by these poisons can also cause toxicity in cats. The taste of the baits may attract cats.
   
   Clinical Signs: Cholecalciferol containing poisons produce signs of hypercalcemia, including loss of appetite, depression, vomiting, muscle weakness, and constipation. Renal, cardiac, pulmonary, and gastrointestinal changes are caused by excess calcium deposition. This can lead to death.
   
   Bromethalin rapidly effects the nervous system and causes tremors, incoordination, hyperexcitability, increased body temperature, ataxia, and depression. Large doses lead to seizures and death.
   
   Strychnine causes signs of skeletal muscle excitation. Increased muscle contractions can lead to seizures within minutes to hours. Strychnine-poisoned cats will act apprehensive, agitated, and excited. They may have tremors, drooling, muscle spasms, and collapse. Signs are exasperated by light, motion, noise, and touch. Death can occur following paralysis of the respiratory system.
   
   Zinc phosphide toxicity signs develop within minutes to hours and include changes to the stomach, intestines, heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys. Affected cats experience abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, depression, vomiting, anxiety, and seizures. Death can occur from an inability of the cardiovascular system to function correctly or from ongoing organ failure.
   
   Sodium Fluoroacetate causes vomiting, nervousness, apprehension, staggering, urination, defecation, seizures, vocalizing, cardiac changes, and collapse. Death often follows.
   
   Diagnosis: The rodenticide poisonings are diagnosed by history of exposure and signs of illness. Some may be diagnosed with specific tests. Cholecalciferol poisons cause serum calcium elevations which are identified with blood tests. Bromethalin can sometimes be identified in tissue samples sent to certain laboratories, but diagnosis is typically based on history and signs.
   
   Diagnosis of strychnine poisoning is based on exposure to the baits or poisoned rodents, along with the signs of poisoning. Dye markers placed in the baits may color any vomitus green or pink. In addition, the distinct signs of poisoning often lead to immediate diagnosis. These signs appear within minutes to hours and are characterized by over-excitement of the nervous system. The most important diagnostic sign is painful, tetanic convulsions that last approximately one minute and are either worsened or triggered by touch, light, or noise.
   
   Zinc phosphide exposure can be confirmed by identifying the compound in stomach contents or looking for elevated blood levels of zinc. Sodium Fluoroacetate poisoning is diagnosed by signs. There are special laboratory tests available at some facilities that can detect the compound in blood.
   
   Treatment: There are no antidotes. These toxins are treated with steps to limit absorption, such as gastric lavage and administration of charcoal, and supportive therapy. Additionally, cats with cholecalciferol toxicity are treated with prednisolone to reduce intestinal absorption of calcium and calcitonin to reduce absorption of calcium from bone. If the cat survives, treatment is continued for several weeks. There is no effective treatment for bromethalin toxicity.
   
   Cats with strychnine toxicity are kept under general anesthesia to control seizures for approximately 24 hours or until the strychnine is eliminated from the body in the urine. They should be kept quiet and away from light and noise. Cats with zinc phosphide toxicity are also treated to control shock and seizures, minimize acid-base imbalances, and manage ongoing liver and kidney problems. Cats with sodium fluoroacetate toxicity may be treated with a product called glycerol monoacetate, but treatment is usually not successful.
   
   Prevention: As with all rodenticides, prevention is accomplished by stopping any access to the baits or rodents killed by the baits. Baits are attractive, easily opened, and readily consumed. Cats are curious, agile, excellent climbers, and able to squeeze into narrow spaces. Pet owners should consider these characteristics and abilities when deciding on measures to control rodent populations. Rodenticides should never be placed in any area that a cat may access. It is much safer to avoid the use of rodenticide baits than to try and prevent cats from finding them.
   
   
7. Lead: Lead poisoning in pets can be a relatively common occurrence. Lead can be found in older paints and lead fishing sinkers. In addition, lead is found in many common substances including insecticides, linoleum, shower curtain weights, drape weights, lead shot, putty, ceramics, batteries, and some glazed china. Many pets have chronic exposure to lead caused by chewing on lead-based paint that is chipping off painted surfaces. Some are acutely poisoned following ingestion of lead weights, lead-containing golf balls, or insecticides. While grooming, cats may poison themselves if they swallow contaminated lead paint or dust that has settled onto their coats.
   
   Clinical Signs: Signs may vary depending on the amount of lead ingested and the length of time of exposure. Gastrointestinal signs may include vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, stomach pain, and loss of appetite. Neurological signs are often present and may include whining, nervousness, lack of coordination, wobbliness, depression, blindness, obsessive circling, convulsions, paralysis, and coma that leads to death. Some animals may have pale gums that can indicate anemia.
   
   Diagnosis: Diagnosis is based on history of exposure, signs of illness, and physical examination. Blood tests will show anemia and changes in the red blood cells. Tests of the fluid that surrounds the spinal cord will also show abnormalities. Specific tests can measure the level of lead in the blood and lead to the definitive diagnosis of lead poisoning.
   
   Treatment: Treatment depends on length of time of poisoning. Recent poisonings respond to treatments to prevent absorption of the lead, along with procedures to remove lead objects from the stomach or intestines. Small lead items such as curtain weights may be removed via endoscopy or surgery from the gastrointestinal tract. Chronic cases of lead poisoning are treated with drugs to control neurologic signs, nursing care, and antidotes to reduce blood levels of lead. Specific antidotes are available to treat lead poisoning. Calcium disodium edetate (Ca EDTA) alone or in combination with dimercaprol (BAL) is used. D-penicillamine (Cuprimine) may be used orally later in the therapy. Succimer (meso-2, 3-dimercaptosuccinic acid), given orally, has been used successfully in experimental settings. Thiamine hydrochloride has been used to help control neurological signs.
   
   Prevention: Prevention involves limiting access to substances that contain lead or lead salts. Lead shot, sinkers, and weights should be kept away from curious pets. Insecticides should be locked away. Pets should not be fed on ceramic plates that may be poorly glazed. Lead paints should be replaced with non-toxic paints. Procedures that are followed to prevent lead poisoning in children will also protect pets.
   
   
8. Zinc: Although zinc poisoning is much less common than lead poisoning, zinc has been associated with toxicity. Found in pennies and often in the screws that secure pet crates, zinc can be swallowed by curious pets. Other sources of zinc are cosmetics and ointments that contain zinc oxide.
   
   Clinical Signs/Diagnosis: Signs of zinc toxicity can include loss of appetite, weakness, and depression. Gums may be pale, white, or have a yellow tinge. Vomiting, depression, and lethargy may occur following ingestion of products that contain zinc oxide. Diagnosis is based on signs, a history of exposure, and examination. Owners may have seen the pet swallow items containing zinc or have lost the screws to a carrier. Zinc causes anemia, which can be identified with blood tests. Specific blood tests can demonstrate zinc in the blood. Radiographs may show the zinc-containing items in the gastrointestinal tract.
   
   Treatment: Treatment involves removal of the foreign objects via gastroscopy or surgery and supportive care. Care may include intravascular fluid therapy, calcium disodium edetate administration, and blood transfusion for extremely ill animals.
   
   Prevention: Zinc toxicosis can be prevented by keeping all zinc-containing objects away from pets. Young cats are the most likely to swallow these items, but even older pets are known to consume small objects. Pennies should be kept off the table and floor and stored in closed containers or banks. Zinc fasteners on pet crates can be replaced with plastic ones. Ointments and cosmetics should be kept in closed drawers or cabinets. A few simple precautions can protect pets from zinc poisoning.
   
   
9. Human Medications: Both prescription and non-prescription medications can make pets quite ill. Due to differences in metabolism, some medications used by people are toxic for pets. Even those human medications that are used for pets must be given at very different dosages to pets than people. Human medications, including over the counter remedies, should only be given to pets when a veterinarian specifically recommends the medication and gives an exact dose. In addition, "folk," herbal, plant, homemade, and "natural" remedies can be toxic to pets. Just because a product is made with herbs does not mean that it is not potent and potentially toxic.
   
   Common medications that can adversely affect pets include over-the-counter pain medications, such as aspirin and aspirin substitutes, lotions, ointments, and prescription medications. Other products include medications for cough, allergy symptoms, diarrhea, constipation, and anxiety. Even human medications that may be tolerated by dogs can make cats ill. Cats are less able than dogs to metabolize and excrete medications, so they are more likely to be poisoned by medications.
   
   Clinical Signs: The signs of illness following consumption of medications can vary depending on the product consumed. Some potential symptoms may include vomiting, drooling, loss of appetite, diarrhea, depression, bleeding, staggering, seizures, coma, and death.
   
   Diagnosis: Diagnosis is based on history of ingestion of the product, symptoms, and physical examination. In some cases, special blood work can be done to test for the presence of specific medications.
   
   Treatment: Do not attempt treatment at home. Home treatment can make some cats worse and interfere with veterinary care. Veterinary treatment may include induction of vomiting and supportive care. Most medications do not have antidotes. Symptomatic nursing care is provided until the substance is eliminated from the body. Some medications are lethal if ingested.
   
   Prevention: Prevention involves keeping all human medications away from pets. Medications should be kept in closed cupboards that pets cannot reach. Old medications should be flushed down the toilet and the toilet should be repeatedly flushed until all the tablets are gone. Do not leave discarded medications in the trash where they can be found by pets. Ointments and lotions should also be stored properly.
   
   Pain medications: Over-the-counter pain medications for people are usually in a class of medications called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and include medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. These drugs should only be used under the direct advice and supervision of a local veterinarian. Used inappropriately, these medications can cause severe toxicity. Cats require much lower doses of these medications than humans do. If treated with the amounts given to people, the animals can become very ill. Even those animals treated at lower doses are at risk for developing a variety of problems, including stomach irritation, stomach ulcers, bleeding, kidney disease, and liver problems. Do not use these medications without a veterinarian’s knowledge and recommendation. Do not increase the dosage or frequency of administration without consulting a veterinarian. Stop all medication and contact a veterinarian if any unusual side effects or signs are noted.
   
   Aspirin should never be administered to a cat without a veterinarian’s advice. Cats are slow to metabolize aspirin, so it lasts approximately six times longer in cats than dogs. If used in cats, veterinarians will prescribe very small amounts given very infrequently. Cats that are inappropriately given aspirin can become ill within a matter of hours and display vomiting, depression, changes in respiration, and fever. These signs may progress to coma and death. There is no antidote and supportive treatment may not be successful.
   
   Acetaminophen is a commonly used analgesic for humans. It is extremely toxic to cats and should never be given to a cat. A single 500-mg tablet will cause severe toxicity in a cat; two tablets within 24 hours will most likely cause death. Cats that are poisoned by acetaminophen show signs with in an hour or two of consumption. Severe damage to the red blood cells causes vomiting, depression, respiratory problems, swelling of the face and extremities, and a muddy, brown coloration of the gums and urine. Treatment involves steps to reduce absorption, the use of an antidote, beta-acetylcysteine (Mucomyst-Mead Johnson), vitamin C, and supportive care.
   
   In summary, never treat an animal with products made for people unless instructed to do so by a veterinarian. All doses of human medications given to pets should be reviewed with the veterinarian. Never increase the frequency of administration or the amount given without a veterinary consultation.
   
   
10. Animal Medications: Pet medications can be toxic if administered at the incorrect dose or if given to the wrong species of pet. For example, some medications used for dogs are poisonous to cats. In addition, the risk of accidental overdose is increased when using highly palatable, chewable medications. Common medications that can cause toxic overdoses include pain medications, heartworm medications, cardiac drugs, and antibiotics.
    
    Clinical Signs: The signs of toxicosis depend on the drug ingested, the amount ingested, and the species of animal involved in the poisoning. Some signs may include diarrhea, vomiting, passing blood in the vomitus or feces, nosebleeds, and loss of appetite. Collapse, neurological signs, coma, and death may also occur.
    
    Diagnosis: Diagnosis is based on signs of poisoning, a history of exposure to the medication, and physical examination. Some overdoses can be confirmed by blood tests. Many times, owners find a bottle of chewable medication opened and the entire contents consumed by the animal.
    
    Treatment: Treatment depends on the medication consumed and the amount of time that has passed since consumption of the medication. Acute cases may be treated with methods designed to limit absorption and speed elimination of the drug. Other cases may require supportive nursing care and medications to reduce the signs of illness.
    
    Prevention: Prevention involves limiting access that pets have to medications. Do not assume that medication is safe because it has been prescribed for one pet. All medications should be kept out of the reach of pets, which may mean storing them in a locked cupboard. Never increase the amount of medication given to a pet without consulting a veterinarian.
    
    
11. Flea and Tick Products: Flea and tick killing products can cause severe, unwanted side effects in pets. These products are available as dips, sprays, shampoos, spot-on topical solutions, and collars. All forms of the products can cause poisoning in pets. Many cases of toxicity caused by these insecticides could be avoided if label directions are followed exactly. Label directions will list the species that the product is intended to be used for, the amount to use, the method of administration, the frequency of administration, and the active ingredients.
    
    Because a manufacturer may give the same name to products with different ingredients, labels may be confusing. A flea product made for cats may have the same name as a flea product with different ingredients made for dogs, with only the word "cat" replacing "dog" on the new product label. This can be extremely dangerous, because many dog flea and tick products are toxic to cats. This is true of flea spot-on products that use highly concentrated permethrin as the active ingredient. Cats have been poisoned by rubbing against, sleeping next to, or grooming a recently treated dog. Cats that are erroneously treated with the products can die from the poisoning. Always read labels carefully. Do not ever use an insecticide labeled for a particular species of animal on another species without consulting a veterinarian.
    
    Clinical Signs: The signs of flea and tick product toxicity may include tremors, salivation, depression, skin irritation, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, and seizures. Difficulty breathing, coma, and death can follow. Signs often appear within minutes after using the product.
    
    Diagnosis: Diagnosis is typically based on signs, physical examination, and a history of exposure to flea and tick products. Owners may notice signs immediately after administering a flea dip or moments after applying a topical spot-on product.
    
    Treatment: Treatment involves removing as much product as possible from the animal. Animals can be bathed in soap, detergent pet shampoos, or diluted dish detergent and rinsed copiously to remove shampoos, sprays, dips, and topical solutions. Collars should be removed. Veterinary treatment may involve gastric lavage and the use of laxatives to remove the toxin, along with intravascular fluid therapy and medications to control seizures and neurologic signs. Depending on the exact chemical involved, atropine sulfate may be needed. Pralidoxime chloride (2-PAM) is used for some poisonings.
    
    Prevention: Careful use of flea and tick products can prevent accidental poisonings. All label directions should be read and followed carefully. Do not use the products on sick, debilitated, pregnant, or nursing pets without a veterinarian’s advice. Do not use products more frequently or in greater amounts than the label advises. Do not use dog products on cats. Do not use products on pets that are younger or weigh less than the minimums listed on the label. Keep all product packages out of the reach of pets to prevent accidental exposure or consumption. Trim flea and tick collars so that pets cannot chew on any excess left hanging from the collar. Avoid the use of collars on young animals that pull and chew on the collars. Consult a veterinarian if questions arise about a product before using it.
    
    Do not use insecticides intended for yards, lawns, plants, rugs, or houses on pets. Even if the products list ingredients that are similar to pet flea and tick remedies, those made for use on inanimate objects or in the environment are typically much more potent than those designed to be used on pets. Do not use any chemicals designed to kill other insects, such as ants, bees, or cockroaches, on pets. Exposure to any of these products through contact or consumption can cause severe poisonings. Signs, diagnosis, and treatment are similar to those for pet flea and tick products. Do not allow pets near recently treated areas and follow all label directions regarding proper use and ventilation after use. Do not allow pets to contact any areas that are still wet from insecticides. Remove all pets from the house during treatments with flea foggers or sprays. Never use these chemicals in place of flea and tick products labeled for use on pets.
    
    
12. Chocolate: Many animals love the taste of chocolate. However, chocolate contains a stimulant called theobromine that causes over-stimulation of an animal’s body. All body systems, including the gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, and nervous system, are affected by theobromine. The more concentrated the chocolate, the larger the amount of theobromine present and the greater the risk to pets. Unsweetened baker’s chocolate is much more dangerous than chocolate ice cream. Baking chocolate contains approximately nine times as much theobromine as milk chocolate.
    
    The toxic dose of chocolate for a cat is 100-300 milligrams per kilogram of body weight (approximately 45-136 mg/lb.). This means that about 1 ounce of milk chocolate per pound of body weight can make a cat ill. In contrast, it only takes less than 1/2 ounce of semi-sweet chocolate per pound of body weight, and as little as 1/8 ounce of baker’s chocolate per pound of body weight to poison a cat.
    
    Clinical Signs: The signs of chocolate intoxication vary, but can include vomiting, diarrhea, nervousness, pacing, frequent urination, muscle tremors, rapid breathing, and a rapid heart rate. Seizures, depression, and death can result from the consumption of large amounts of chocolate. Symptoms depend on the amount and type of chocolate eaten, as well as the size of the cat.
    
    Diagnosis: Diagnosis is based on a history of chocolate consumption, the symptoms, and physical examination of the pet. Owners may find an empty box of chocolate and an ill pet. Some owners may notice symptoms after sharing chocolate with their pet.
    
    Treatment: The first step in treatment is to remove any remaining chocolate to prevent further consumption. Next, assess the amount of chocolate consumed. A cat that has eaten only tiny amounts of chocolate baked into a bakery item may not require any treatment. If unsure, contact a veterinarian. If the cat has consumed potentially toxic amounts of chocolate, seek immediate veterinary care. Veterinary treatment may involve the induction of vomiting, gastric lavage, the administration of charcoal to absorb toxins, the use of medications to control seizures and elevated heartbeat, and supportive care until the toxin is eliminated from the animal.
    
    Prevention: Chocolate toxicosis can be prevented by keeping all forms of baking chocolate, chocolate candy, and baked items that contain chocolate away from pets. Do not share chocolate foods with pets. Use chocolate-flavored substitutes when cooking treats for pets. Do not assume that tiny bits of chocolate are okay for a pet. One cannot be sure how even small amounts will effect an animal; all chocolate should be kept away from pets.
    
    
13. Garbage: Rotting and spoiled foods are an excellent source of toxins. Bacterial overgrowth in decaying meats and dairy products can lead to poisoning of cats that ingest them. Clostridium, Campylobacter, Salmonella, and Yersinia are some of the bacteria that will rapidly multiply in rotten foods. In addition, toxins from the bacteria can produce severe illness and lead to death. Animals that are fed old garbage or spoiled "left-overs" may be poisoned. Meat and dairy products left in compost piles also contribute to this type of poisoning. Pets that have access to and consume the carcasses of dead animals may also become sick.
    
    Clinical Signs: Signs include severe vomiting, diarrhea (with or without the presence of blood), dehydration, nausea, pain, and collapse. Clostridial toxicosis can cause paralysis, coma, and death. Other bacterial toxins may cause wobbling, difficulty breathing, and convulsions.
    
    Diagnosis: Diagnosis is based on history of exposure, signs of illness, and physical examination. Laboratory tests may be helpful in reaching a definitive diagnosis. Owners may find overturned garbage cans and an ill pet. Pets may vomit partially digested meats or animal parts that point to the cause of illness.
    
    Treatment: Treatment is based on limiting absorption of the toxin, including gastric lavage, and providing supportive therapy until the toxin is eliminated. Fluid therapy may be needed. Clostridium toxicosis may be treated with antitoxin if diagnosed early in the course of poisoning.
    
    Prevention: Prevention is accomplished by keeping cats away from spoiled and rotting foods. Kitchen waste should be kept out of the reach of pets. Garbage cans should be tightly sealed and inaccessible to pets. Pets should not be fed old or decaying foods. If the food is considered too old for a person to consume, it is too old to be fed to a pet. In addition, meat and dairy products should not be added to compost piles. Decomposing meat and cheese not only attract rodents but also are a major source of toxins for pets that dig through the compost and consume the foods. Cats should not be allowed to consume road kill and the carcasses of dead animals.
    
    

Toxic Plants:

There are many books written on poisonous plants. It would be a wise idea to keep an illustrated book of common poisonous plants. This will aid in identification in case of accidental poisoning.

Clinical Signs: The signs of plant poisoning depend on the plant that has been chewed or consumed. Signs may include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, twitching, nervousness, coma, and death. The most common houseplant poisonings occur after ingestion of plants in the family Areaceae. Plants in this family, including dieffenbachia, philodendron, elephant’s ear, and rhubarb, contain irritating calcium oxalate crystals. If chewed, the crystals cause salivation and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat. The pet may not be able to swallow, have blisters, and difficulty breathing. Eye and skin irritation can occur if the plant juices touch these areas. Other plants cause different signs that correlate to the body organs or system that are affected by the particular plant toxin. Some plants affect only one body system; others affect multiple organs and cause many signs of illness.

Diagnosis: Diagnosis is usually based on access to a plant, evidence of ingestion, and a sick pet. Owners often find chewed vegetation and a salivating pet that is pawing at its mouth. Veterinary diagnosis is based on a history of exposure, symptoms, and physical examination. There are no specific tests to determine plant poisonings.

Treatment: Treatment is dependent on the symptoms and may include rinsing the plant juice from the mouth, eyes, and skin. Some animals require pain medication, general nursing care, hospitalization, and intravenous fluid therapy. There are antidotes for some plant toxins. Other plant poisons are so toxic that pets succumb despite treatment. It is critical to provide the veterinarian with the plant and the exact parts that have been chewed. Different parts of plants may contain different toxins and require different treatments. In addition, it is inadequate to use common names to identify the plants for the veterinarian. Using the plant’s common name can lead to confusion because similar names may describe very different plants. The veterinarian must know the botanical name of the plant or see the plant to achieve a proper diagnosis for treatment.

Prevention: Prevention is accomplished by denying access to poisonous plants throughout a pet’s environment. If a pet insists on chewing plants, provide ones that are harmless. Plants should be hung up or kept out of the reach of cats. Because cats are adept at climbing and jumping, it may be necessary to keep only non-toxic plants, such as oat grass, in the house if a cat is likely to chew. Because many cats enjoy chewing on greenery and digging in the pots of soil, one can purchase pots of pre-planted, non-insecticide-treated grass from pet supply stores and catalogs. Do not assume that all plants with long grass-like leaves or stalks are actually edible grasses. Purchase only oat grass labeled as edible for cats.

1. Plants that Affect the Gastrointestinal System: There are many plants that can cause intestinal problems if swallowed. Most cause intestinal upset that is treated symptomatically. There are no antidotes; supportive care should be provided unless noted otherwise.
   1. Poisonous Shrubs - The family Ericaceae, including rhododendrons and azaleas (Rhododendron spp.), are common house and garden plants. Accidental ingestion leads to rapid signs of toxicity. Signs include salivation, vomiting, depression, repeated swallowing, and loss of appetite. Additional signs may include cardiac changes that can result in collapse and even death. Similar signs are seen following ingestion of laurel (Kalmia). Immediate death may occur if a cat eats laurel. Fortunately, most pets will not consume enough to become ill. There is no antidote. Treatment involves supportive care.
      
      
   2. Bulb Plants - The bulbs of all garden plants should be considered potentially toxic if consumed. Common ornamental plants that are grown from bulbs include tulips, daffodils, amaryllis, and iris. Cats that consume the bulbs may suffer from abdominal pains, loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. There is no antidote. Treatment involves supportive and symptomatic therapy. Most animals survive the poisoning.
      
      Common Plants Grown From Bulbs:
      

      Common Name	Botanical Name
      Tulip	Tulipa spp.
      Daffodil	Narcissus pseudonarcissus
      Iris	Iris spp.
      Amaryllis	Amaryllis spp.

      
      
   3. Bean Poisonings - The castor bean plant (Ricinus communis) and the precatory bean (Abrus precatorius) produce beans that cause severe poisoning if ingested. The castor bean must be chewed or opened to cause a problem. The precatory bean is so toxic that the consumption of one bean can be fatal. Both plants may be used as ornamentals and may grow wild in the southern states. Both types of beans may be dried and used in jewelry. The dried beans also cause poisoning if chewed. Signs of poisoning develop several hours after ingestion. Common signs include fever, followed by increased thirst, abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, increased heart rate, convulsions, paralysis, and death. There is no antidote. Treatment may include inducing vomiting, gastrointestinal lavage, symptomatic support, and intravascular fluid therapy. Therapy may not be successful in some cases.
      
      
   4. Family Solanaceae - There are many plants in this family that are used for food (potato, eggplant) and decoration (Jerusalem cherry, deadly nightshade). All the plants contain an alkaloid toxin called solanine. Pets may be poisoned if they consume the plant or the berries, especially if the berries are not yet ripe. Signs of poisoning include loss of appetite, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. In addition, some plants in this group cause nervous system problems, including salivation, drowsiness, trouble breathing, trembling, weakness, and coma. There is no antidote. Treatment includes supportive nursing care and symptomatic treatment of signs of toxicity.
      
      Common Plants in the Family Solanaceae:
      

      Common Name	Botanical Name
      Black Nightshade	Solanum nigrum
      Jerusalem Cherry	Solanum pseudocapsicum
      Nightshade	Solanum dulcamara
      Horse Nettle	Solanum carolinense
      Buffalo Bur	Solanum rostratum
      Potato (if green and/or sprouted)	Solanum tuberosum

      
      
   5. Walnuts and Acorns - Nuts from the black walnut tree (Juglans nigra), the English walnut tree (Juglans regia), the horse chestnut tree (Aesculus hippocastanum), and acorns from oak trees (Quercus spp.) have all been identified as toxic to pets. Signs are consistent with gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines) and include vomiting and diarrhea, possibly containing blood. Some animals may have seizures. Acorn poisoning may also result in depression, signs of kidney disease, and constipation. There is no antidote for animals that consume these walnuts or acorns. Treatment involves symptomatic and supportive therapy.
      
      
   6. English Ivy - Hedera helix is a ground cover that has toxin in both the leaves and berries. Ingestion causes salivation, increased thirst, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Coma and death may follow. There is no antidote. Treatment includes supportive and symptomatic care.
      
      
   7. Holiday Plants - There are several ornamental plants and shrubs that are brought into homes during the winter holidays. The brightly colored flowers and berries may attract curious pets that find the new plants interesting. This is particularly a problem with young animals. If ingested, these plants can cause a variety of signs, including diarrhea and vomiting. In addition, the irritating sap of poinsettia and other members of the Euphorbia family can cause irritation of the eyes, tongue, skin, and gastrointestinal tract. Treatment involves rinsing off any irritating sap, along with supportive care and fluid therapy. There is no antidote.
      
      Common Poisonous Holiday Plants:
      

      Common Name	Botanical Name
      American Mistletoe	Phoradendron flavescens
      Crown of Thorns	Euphorbia splendens
      Poinsettia	Euphorbia pulcherrima
      Snow on the Mountain	Euphorbia marginata
      Tinsel Tree	Euphorbia tirucalli

      
      
   8. Berries - Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) and pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) berries can cause diarrhea if consumed. Uncooked elderberries can cause severe diarrhea. There is no antidote. Treatment involves symptomatic and supportive nursing care.
      
      
2. Plants that Cause Mouth and Tongue Irritation:
   1. Family Araceae - This group of common houseplants accounts for the majority of small animal poisonings. Curious, playful, or bored cats chew on the plants and are exposed to the irritating toxins found in the plants. Poisoning is a result of calcium oxalate crystals that form in body tissues, along with enzymes that cause histamine release. This results in immediate and severe signs of local irritation and inflammation. Signs include salivation, mouth pain, swollen tongue and lips, pawing at the face and mouth, and loss of voice due to vocal fold swelling. Swelling of the tongue may last for several days and cause the tongue to protrude from the mouth. Severe signs that require emergency care include swelling in the throat and mouth that interferes with breathing. If the sap lands on broken skin, mucus membranes, or the eyes, irritation will result, causing dermatitis and eye irritations. There is no antidote. Treatment includes the use of drugs to reduce swelling, such as antihistamines and corticosteroids, along with supportive therapy. Emergency care may be required to save the animal’s life.
      
      Common Plants that Contain Oxalates:
      

      Common Name	Botanical Name
      Caladium	Caladium spp.
      Calla Lily	Zantedeschia aethiopica
      Dumbcane	Dieffenbachia spp.
      Elephant’s Ear	Colocasia spp.
      Jack in the Pulpit	Arisaema triphyllum
      Philodendron	Philodendron spp.
      Skunk Cabbage	Symplocarpus foetidus
      Rhubarb (leaf)	Rheum rhaponticum

      
      
3. Plants that Cause Mechanical or Contact Injury:
   1. Nettles - There are plants that protect themselves with small, hair-like projections that contain irritants such as histamine, acetylcholine, serotonin, and formic acid. Cats that run through these plants can pick up enough nettles to cause signs of toxicity. These signs include salivation, mouth pain, pawing at the mouth, tremors, vomiting, low heart rate, difficulty breathing, and muscle weakness. Treatment may include the use of atropine as an antidote, along with symptomatic care to reduce inflammation/irritation and supportive therapy.
      
      Common Plants that Cause Irritation:
      

      Common Name	Botanical Name
      Nettle	Urticaria chamaedryoides
      Stinging Nettle	Urticaria dioica
      Bull Nettle	Laportea canadensis
      Nettle Spurge	Cnidoscolus stimulosus

      
      
   2. Plants with Mechanical Means of Injury - In addition to cacti, there are many plants that use barbs, spines, awns, burs, and hooks to avoid being eaten or to attach their seeds to passing animals for dispersal. Although these plants do not carry toxic agents, they can harm pets. These small foreign objects can cause mechanical injury by embedding into animals. Many awns are equipped with barbs that allow them to move forward only; they cannot be pulled out of the skin by the animal. They can migrate through the skin, nostrils, ears, and other body orifices or be inhaled. Common sites of entry include the ears, nostrils, and eyes. Once in the body, the awns can migrate anywhere. Signs depend on the body system affected and can include drainage from the nose, sneezing, facial rubbing, head shaking, difficulty breathing, mouth or eye inflammation and irritation, abscesses and draining tracts, and lameness. Treatment involves identifying and removing the foreign object and treating any wounds or infections that result.
      
      Common Plants that Cause Mechanical Injury:
      

      Common Name	Botanical Name
      Burdock	Arcticum lappa
      Foxtail	Setaria spp.
      Sandbur	Cenchrus pauciflorus
      Wild Barley	Hordeum spp.
      June Grass	Bromus tectorum
      Cocklebur	Xanthium spp.
      Cacti	Family Cactaceae

      
      
4. Plants that Affect the Nervous System: There are many plants that have toxic effects on the nervous system. They may block nerve impulses, cause convulsions, alter behavior, interfere with muscle activity and breathing, or cause immediate death. There are no antidotes. Treatment involves taking steps to prevent absorption and speed elimination, along with supportive care. Some of these toxicities cannot be successfully treated.
   1. Plants that Cause Nicotine-Like Actions - These plants contain either nicotine or similar substances that cause nausea, vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, and nervous system signs of shaking, convulsions, muscle twitching, weakness, and collapse. If large amounts are consumed and the nervous system is depressed, difficult breathing and a low heart rate may precede heart failure, coma, and death. Treatment involves removal of the plant material from the digestive tract, along with supportive care to ensure breathing and cardiac function until the toxin is eliminated from the body.
      
      Common Nicotine-Like Plants:
      

      Common Name	Botanical Name
      Tobacco	Nicotiana tobaccum
      Poison Hemlock	Conium maculatum
      Cardinal Flower	Lobelia cardinalis
      Great Lobelia	Lobelia siphilitica
      Indian Tobacco	Lobelia inflata
      Goldenchain	Laburnum anagyroides

      
      
   2. Convulsants - This group of plants causes convulsions. There are no antidotes. Treatment involves symptomatic and supportive care.
      
      Common Plants that Cause Convulsions:
      

      Common Name	Botanical Name
      Chinaberry	Melia azedarach
      Moonseed	Menispermum canadense
      Nux Vomica	Strychnos nux-vomica
      Water Hemlock	Cicuta maculata

      
      
   3. Plants that Alter Awareness - This group of plants contains substances that can cause an altered mental or behavioral state in pets and people, and may cause other signs of illness in pets. Signs may include depression, muscular incoordination, respiratory depression, and a decrease in body temperature. Large quantities can cause the animal to become unconscious. Some plant toxins may cause blurred vision, vomiting, diarrhea, and cardiac and respiratory distress. Others cause delirium, convulsions, and coma. There are no antidotes. Supportive nursing care and symptomatic treatment are the mainstays of therapy.
      
      Common Plants that Alter Awareness:
      

      Common Name	Botanical Name
      Marijuana	Cannabis sativa
      Periwinkle	Vinca rosea
      Jimson Weed	Datura spp.
      Peyote	Lophophora williamsii
      Nutmeg	Myristica fragans
      Morning Glory	Ipomoea spp.

      
      
5. Plants that Affect the Heart and Circulatory System:
   1. Plants that Cause Cardiovascular Changes - Several plants contain chemicals that rapidly and significantly affect the heart. Signs initially may include immediate nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. At times, gastrointestinal signs are delayed for several hours. Respiratory distress may follow. Cardiac effects include changes in heart rate and rhythm that culminate in death. Treatment involves drugs that would be used to treat an overdose of the cardiac medication, digitalis. This may include intravascular fluid support and correction of electrolyte abnormalities. Potassium chloride, atropine, phenytoin, oxygen, and cardiac drugs such as propranolol or procainamide are also used. Treatment may not be adequate to save the pet.
      
      The most lethal shrub in this group is oleander. Minute quantities of the plant can be lethal if ingested. There have been reports of fatalities in people after using the branches as hotdog sticks.
      
      Common Plants that Affect the Heart:
      

      Common Name	Botanical Name
      Rhododendron	Rhododendron spp.
      Lily-of-the-Valley	Convallaria majalis
      Foxglove	Digitalis purpurea
      Oleander	Nerium spp.
      Yellow Oleander	Thevetia peruviana

      
      
   2. Plants that Contain Cyanide - This group of plants causes death by interfering with oxygen transfer from the blood to body tissues. Oxygen is unable to travel from the blood into the cells. Most of the cyanide in the plants is located in the seeds, but poisonings have been reported from ingestion of other plant parts. Signs of toxicity include apprehension, urination, defecation, muscle spasms, convulsions, labored breathing, dilation of the pupils, coma, and death. Death may occur very rapidly following ingestion of cyanide-laden seeds. Treatment involves the use of antidotes containing sodium nitrate or sodium thiosulfate and steps to remove the plant material from the gastrointestinal tract, along with supportive and symptomatic care.
      
      Common Plants that Contain Cyanide:
      

      Common Name	Botanical Name
      Apple	Malus spp.
      Almond	Prunus amygdalus
      Apricot	Prunus armeniaca
      Choke Cherry	Prunus virginianum
      Sweet Cherry	Prunus pisium
      Wild Cherry	Prunus serotina
      Japanese Plum	Eriobotrya japonica

      
      
   3. Yew - There are several varieties of yews (Taxus spp.), including American yew, Japanese yew, English yew, and Western yew. The Japanese yew, valued as an ornamental shrub, is an evergreen with red, berry-like fruit. The fruits, bark, and leaves are extremely toxic. Very small amounts can cause immediate death. The toxin, an alkaloid, may cause sudden death by stopping the heart. The plant may still be in the mouth when death occurs. Other signs may include trembling, muscular weakness, difficulty breathing, diarrhea, and collapse. There is no antidote. Treatment involves supportive and symptomatic nursing care.
      
      
6. Mushroom Poisoning: There are over 3,000 species of mushrooms, most of which cannot be identified without microscopic examination. Because most pet owners are unable to identify individual mushroom species, all mushrooms should be considered toxic to pets. Mushrooms and toadstools contain a number of toxins that can cause gastrointestinal and nervous system problems. Signs of poisoning depend on the particular mushroom consumed and include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, salivation, irregular pulse, and difficulty breathing. Central nervous system signs include excitement, drowsiness, muscle spasms, coma, and death. Surviving animals may suffer from chronic liver damage and require long term therapy. Treatment includes steps to reduce absorption, such as the induction of vomiting and gastric lavage, and the use of medications (possibly chlorpromazine and physostigmine) to control specific signs.
   
   Common Poisonous Mushrooms:
   

   Common Name	Botanical Name
   Fly Amanita	Amanita muscaria
   Panther Amanita	Amanita pantherina
   Death Cap	Amanita phalloides
   Destroying Angel	Amanita virosa
   Spring Amanita	Amanita verna