If everything always went according to plan, you, as a pet owner, would never have a reason to make your cat puke. Before we move forward, it is important to note that there is no safe way to induce vomiting in cats at home. But our furry feline friends, like other pets, can sometimes be unduly adventurous. In a situation where your cat has swallowed or ingested something that could be harmful to them, you may want to get that harmful substance out right away.
While some ways of inducing vomiting are tried and tested, others are misconceptions that can be dangerous and even add more woes to your pet’s predicament. Using hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting in cats lies in the latter category and for good reasons too.
Why Is Hydrogen Peroxide Dangerous to Cats?
Hydrogen peroxide is an efficient emetic substance in some animals, but it works differently in cats. Dogs are usually prescribed hydrogen peroxide in controlled quantities to induce vomiting, and it works fine and functions by irritating the stomach lining, which makes the animal throw up.
Should you give a cat hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting, it can cause serious inflammation and ulcerations to the stomach and esophagus. It can also damage epithelial tissue, leading to intestinal bleeding. Because most of the damage is done internally, it may go unnoticed until your cat starts exhibiting external symptoms. At this point, the internal damage might be too far gone, and shock and possibly death could follow.
Clinical Signs of Hydrogen Peroxide Poisoning in Cats
Administering hydrogen peroxide to your cat can cause the following symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Bloody stools
- Intestinal bleeding
- Difficulty breathing
- Foaming in the mouth
What To Do If Your Cat Ingests Hydrogen Peroxide
If your cat ingests hydrogen peroxide, this situation requires prompt medical attention. Call your veterinarian or get your pet to the nearest veterinary clinic for treatment. Though there is no antidote for hydrogen peroxide poisoning per se; a veterinarian might recommend medication to help the gastrointestinal tract and minimize additional damage.
Your cat will need lots of supportive care during such a period, and it may need hospitalization for some time. Contact Pet Poison Helpline® at (855) 764-7661 immediately if you can confirm or suspect your pet has consumed hydrogen peroxide. Much-needed advice from Pet Poison Helpline® can be provided to keep your pet stable until a veterinarian can take over.
