Health Hazards

cat eating a plant
Cat lovers do not like to contemplate the expression “Curiosity killed the cat.” Nonetheless, it is true that cats like to explore and all too often they can encounter serious hazards in their own homes. Cat owners need to assess these dangers so their cats stay safe and happy.

Everyday Hazards

Home owners routinely keep many items around the house that are poisonous to cats. Common signs of poisoning include:

  • Drooling
  • Seizures
  • Heavy, labored breathing
  • Unsteadiness
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting

If you suspect your cat has been poisoned, call your emergency vet immediately.

Chemicals used to kill insects and rodents are also very bad for cats. Household cleaners, fertilizers, antifreeze and medications are also harmful to cats when ingested. All these should be kept in secure places, away from your pets.

Many foods that humans enjoy are bad or even deadly for cats. Onions, raisins, grapes, avocados and chewing gums that contain xylitol are on the forbidden list. Chocolate is poisonous for cats.

Cat owners also need to carefully consider houseplants and those they plant in the yard. Many beautiful flowers, including lilies, poinsettias, foxglove and tulips, can poison your cat. For instance, lilies can cause kidney failure.

Ingesting lead paint, of course, is not good for anyone, including cats.

Holiday Hazards

Some cats are way too interested in holiday decorations. Veterinarians have heard all the tales: cats that climb a Christmas tree, only to be injured when the tree topples; the tinsel-gobbler who gets a perforated intestine; the cat shocked by chewing on the electric wires of Christmas lights; the ornament-smacker who endures a scolding because she broke a family heirloom.

Don’t set your cat up for disaster. Instead, solidly anchor your Christmas tree. Hang inexpensive, cat-friendly toys made of cloth or straw on the lower branches, securing them with cloth loops rather than sharp wires. Spray your tree with a cat deterrent, such as peppermint oil, Tabasco or wasabi.

Parties

While some cats are party animals, many are more reserved and prefer to guard their privacy. A big get-together might spook them. Be sure that your cat has a safe, secure place to hide out. Parties are especially dangerous for indoor cats. Careless and sometimes inebriated guests are more likely to leave a door open and provide the party-hating cat with a tempting escape route.

Call our office today if your cat has been the victim of a household hazard. Or, better yet, ask us for more prevention tips when you come in for a regular checkup.

Location


Office Hours

Open 7 days a week!

Monday:

7:00 am-6:00 PM

Tuesday:

7:00 am-6:00 PM

Wednesday:

7:00 am-6:00 PM

Thursday:

7:00 am-6:00 PM

Friday:

7:00 am-6:00 PM

Saturday:

7:00 am-6:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

Feedback from our clients

  • "Great vet practice! Have experienced many other vet clinics in NE Ft Lauderdale area and Dr. Vaujin is the best. Knowledgeable, reasonable and the front desk staff is very friendly so not sure about some of the complaints. Everyone has a bad day now and again, don't take it personally and judge with such harshness. Caring, compassionate and excellent care-that's what matters. Won't go anywhere else."
    RubiR A.
  • "I am completely happy with Heroes. They take good care of my dog, Annie. Their pricing is fair and reasonable. Annie needed minor surgery to remove a growth from her neck and during the procedure the Doctor removed a second growth that was unknown to us at diagnosis at no additional charge. I find the staff to be accommodating and sensitive to Annie's high anxiousness during her visits. I highly recommend their services."
    Mark G.
  • "This place and these professionals are the epitome of true love for the care of all pets....They get 5 stars from me on there worst day. My best friend was looking at paralysis due to a chronic condition he has had for many years and they have found a way to limit his condition and to live a pain free full life.
    *****5 STARS *****"
    Michael L.
  • "I am truly amazed with the friendly staff and how they treated my dog
    They saved my dogs life and I'm very grateful that they found the time to do a emergency surgery without it my dog would have passed away.
    Other vets were charging 2500 to 3500
    Heroes did the surgery for 1/4 of the price
    Thanks again"
    Paul C.
  • "I took my cat in today without an appointment and everyone was so caring, helpful, and understanding of how emotional I was getting. They thoroughly explained exactly what she'd have to have done and were so nice. I really appreciate how sweet they were because I was so upset and worried before coming in. I'm glad to have found a new vet to take my pets to :-)"
    Kimmy W.