If your cat ate a poisoned mouse, it is normal for you to worry and wonder if your cat is in danger and what to do. The truth is that there are different types of poisons, some more dangerous than others, and the fact that your cat ate one or more mice also plays a role. Your cat will most likely be fine if they ate a poisoned mouse, as the amount of poison ingested by the rodent is usually small. However, it is always important to consult your veterinarian if your cat had any contact with a poisoned mouse and, of course, if your cat ate poison directly.
Feel better? We hope so—there’s nothing worse than worrying about an issue such as your cat being accidentally poisoned while trying to rid your home of a pest. But can your cat become sick or violently ill from eating a poisoned mouse? The short answer is that it’s possible but unlikely. It is always easier to answer this question if you know the type of poison the rodent had and if your cat has eaten just one bite or if this is an ongoing issue. Read on to learn more about this topic and other valuable information to keep your cat safe.
What Happens if My Cat Eats a Poisoned Mouse?
Having a cat decreases the chance of a rodent, especially mice, setting up shop in your home—just the presence of your cat is usually enough to deter them from hanging around, whether your cat is a hunter or not. However, if you choose to use poison to kill rodents, keep in mind that there’s a high chance of your cat accessing the poison and getting very sick. If it is a poisoned rodent or mice that your cat has eaten, then the risk is lower than if your cat ingested the poison directly.
As explained, the real risk from rodenticides is when an animal (your cat) ingested poisons from bait stations or some area in and around the home where they can gain access to eat the poison directly. It’s vital to keep any type of poison out of your cat’s reach, and if you suspect your cat has ingested poison, call the pet poison helpline immediately.1
Are There Safer Methods to Kill Mice & Other Rodent Pests?
Yes! As much as we wish it weren’t so, rodent pests can pose a health risk when they invade your home. Some mice and rats can transmit diseases to humans. This can occur through handling of rodents directly, having contact with their urine or feces, rodent bites, or being bitten by an infected flea or tick carried by them. Some of the diseases that rodents can transmit to people are Hantavirus, Salmonella, Tularemia, typhus, and others. It is important to remove dead mice or rats as soon as possible to protect yourself, your family, and your pets.
Let’s look at safer methods for your cat and other pets, as well as humane ways of taking care of the problem.
Avoid the Use of Glue Traps
No one likes having a rodent problem, but using glue traps is an inhumane way of getting rid of rodents. Many humane ways exist to keep rodents from suffering. In addition to glue traps being inhumane, the glue trap can get stuck on your cat or other pets. If you, by chance, run across a rodent trapped on a glue trap but still alive, and you want to save it, pour cold canola or vegetable oil between the rodent and the glue trap—this will allow the rodent to break free without pain. Ensure you set the rodent free in a safe area far away from your home.
How to Keep Your Home Rodent-Free
Keeping a hygienic home is vital in keeping pesky rodents away. However, even the cleanest of homes fall victim to rodent infestations. Nonetheless, here are ways to help prevent these infestations.
Tips for Keeping Your Cat Safe During Pest Control
The most effective way to keep your cat safe during pest control treatment is to avoid using poison. You can use one of the safer ways mentioned above that are both humane and keeps your pets safe. Keep your cat away from any bait or poison traps, and contact your vet immediately if you suspect your cat ate a poisoned mouse.
Remember, it’s unlikely your cat will get sick, as it would take your cat eating many poisoned mice or rats to cause harm, but it’s better to be on the safe side.
Final Thoughts
Using poison to kill rodents is always very risky when you have pets in the home. Rodents do not hibernate, which makes your home an excellent spot to keep warm during cold months. Rodents can choose your attic, walls, or even your kitchen cupboards and appliances to use as their sanctuary in the winter. They can also pose fire risks from chewing on electrical wires, as well as possibly spreading disease.
If you’re concerned about using poison, you can use the safer methods mentioned in this post. It’s unlikely your cat will get sick from eating a poisoned mouse but practicing safer techniques is wise.
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Featured Image Credit: Markos-Loizou, Shutterstock