A chunk of chocolate could kill a cat, charity warns

Tom Stone — Sat, 23 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

A few chocolate buttons or a small chunk could kill a cat, vets at the nation's leading cat charity have warned in the run up to Easter.

Just two grams of chocolate could be toxic to our feline friends, Cats Protection's Central Veterinary Officer Sarah Elliott cautioned: "Eating even a small amount of chocolate could raise a cat's heart rate and increase loss of bodily fluids, both of which could be fatal.

"Caffeine in chocolate can affect the central nervous system and cause muscle twitching, but the main danger is theobromine. Cats can't metabolise the stimulant and diuretic as well as humans so it remains in their bloodstream for longer and quickly builds to dangerous levels."

Signs of poisoning can be seen within 30 minutes to two hours after ingesting the chocolate and can include vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive urination, irregular heartbeat and seizures.

Sarah said: "The severity of these symptoms will depend on your cat's weight and how much chocolate they have eaten, but if you believe your cat has eaten any chocolate you should contact your vet straight away. Do not wait for the symptoms to appear before seeking help."

Sarah urged safety at Easter with its shiny temptation of foil-wrapped chocolate "Cats are curious creatures so it's important to keep chocolate out of their reach,' she said. "By taking a few simple precautions we can all tuck into our favourite chocolate while making sure our cats remain happy, healthy and safe."

Cat owners shouldn't confuse curiosity in their own treat as a cat's craving for chocolate. Unlike dogs, a cat's tongue cannot detect sweetness from sugar and it is more likely the cat is just curious or attracted to the fat content of food made for humans.

Chocolate is just one food that poses a risk to cats. Coffee, nuts, grapes, garlic and coconut water can cause severe vomiting, diarrhoea or dehydration. Even milk and cheese can bring on sickness and digestive problems as many cats are lactose intolerant.

Carers at the cat charity's 37 centres and more than 200 branches have first-hand experience of dealing with the fallout of feline misadventure through their work to support cat welfare.

Samantha Taylor, Manager at Cats Protection's Downham Market Adoption Centre, said: "People come to us for support and sometimes ask if it's ok to feed a cat food that is meant for people or to say their cat has eaten something they shouldn't and they are worried.

"Plants such as lilies and daffodils are toxic to cats, but cats have been known to eat anything, from chocolate to plastic. Our advice is always the same; if you think that your cat has eaten something they shouldn't, contact your vet immediately. If you wait, it could be too late."

Cats Protection provides extensive care advice to support better cat ownership, including the risks of eating dangerous foods or flowers. Visit www.cats.org.uk/help-and-advice/home-and-environment/poisoning

Motorists urged to check for cats under cars on cold winter mornings

Tom Stone — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 17:06:06 +0000

Drivers have been urged to check for any animals seeking refuge in their vehicles on cold winter mornings to prevent harming any beloved pets.

Motoring experts at LeaseCar.uk say animals could meet a tragic fate if unsuspecting drivers set off while they are still sheltering. The experts also warn that if an animal gets stuck in the car it could result in extensive and costly damage.

Smaller animals like cats, squirrels and hedgehogs are always on the lookout for places to keep warm and sheltered from the harsh elements. The engine area is a popular hiding spot for creatures because of the warmth, but it contains various components like fan belts and blades. Unfortunately, this location is dangerous to both animals and the car, and any damage incurred could result in a costly engine replacement, potentially setting motorists back up to £5000.

Ways to prevent animals from getting trapped in a vehicle include installing motion-activated alarms near the car and using natural herb repellents such as lavender.

Tim Alcock from LeaseCar.uk said: "With winter approaching and Brits bracing for months of plunging temperatures, all car owners are being asked to be on the lookout for pets and animals before they get behind the wheel. Cars and vans offer the perfect warm sanctuary from cold winds and freezing temperatures, especially when the engine has recently been running, so it is important to check for them before. Common spots for animals to hide include the car engine, under the hood and on top of the wheels. Tips to prevent cats and hedgehogs from using the vehicle as a shelter include parking in a garage and ensuring it is clean as rubbish will attract animals. Failing to deter animals before starting the engine could not only lead to serious injury or fatalities but may also lead to a hefty bill at the garage."

Six ways to deter animals according to LeaseCar.uk:

Motion activated alarms

Motion-activated alarms, or lights, can startle animals and discourage them from coming over to the vehicle and making camp.

Use Herbs

Some herbs such as lavender and rosemary contain scents that are unpleasant to cats and create a natural repellent. It is worth sprinkling this around the vehicle and spraying it where animals could try to sneak in.

Park in the garage

If possible, park the vehicle in a garage as it will create a barrier between the animals and the car. Those without a garage should consider using a car cover.

Keep it clean

Leaving food and rubbish in a vehicle could attract animals to come closer to the vehicle, so it is worth having a winter clean.

Beep the horn

If a motorist suspects that an animal could be hanging around their car, honk the horn or bang on the hood before starting the engine. If the animal was sleeping, this should give them time to escape.

Double-check

Routinely check the vehicle before setting off anywhere- think about checking underneath the vehicle, and even in the wheel arch above the tyres.

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A chunk of chocolate could kill a cat, charity warns

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Motorists urged to check for cats under cars on cold winter mornings

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