Immediate Actions:
- Call the vet or animal poison control center immediately. Do not wait until your cat shows symptoms.
- Induce vomiting only if instructed by a professional. DO NOT administer anything without consulting a veterinarian.
Symptoms to Monitor:
- Excessive salivation
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Seizures
- Coma
Treatment:
- If ingestion is confirmed, the vet may administer activated charcoal to absorb the toxin.
- Intravenous (IV) fluids may be given to prevent dehydration.
- Pain medication may be prescribed for discomfort.
- In severe cases, hospitalization and oxygen therapy may be necessary.
Toxicology:
Caladium contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause severe irritation and swelling of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract. Ingestion can lead to:
- Oral and gastrointestinal ulcers
- Choking
- Liver and kidney damage
Prognosis:
The prognosis depends on the amount ingested and the promptness of medical intervention. Early treatment significantly improves the chances of survival.
Prevention:
- Keep caladium plants out of reach of pets.
- Educate children and visitors about the risks to animals.
- If you suspect your cat has ingested any toxic substance, seek veterinary attention immediately.
The article was created by AI.
We received responses from Google Gemini to the following questions.
My cat ate an “caladium”. What should I do? Answers should be in English.
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