WHAT ARE THE DANGERS OF CATS AND ANT POISON?

Cats and ant poison do not mix well together since cats can be poisoned by ant traps. So, what do you do if you have cats and there are ants in your house? You will have to take precautions to make sure your cat isn’t poisoned. Keep reading to find how you can prevent cats being poisoned by ant traps.

Are Ants Traps and Repellents Safe for Cats?

Ant traps can use bait to attract ants, but the bait can also attract cats. Some ant traps use peanut butter, butter, or strong odors that may attract cats. Common trap ingredients are borax and avermectin which are both poisonous to ants. These substances can be safe in low doses for your cat, but a large dose may be fatal. More toxic ingredients include abamectin, hydramethylnon, indoxacarb, thiamethoxam, and pyriproxyfen. Furthermore, cats can eat the plastic and cardboard associated with ant traps as well.

Ant sprays and repellents are also dangerous to cats. Cats can breathe in the fumes or lick the chemicals in the spray. Keep all ant traps in a secure location that your cat cannot get to. There are cat friendly ant traps that use fewer toxic ingredients.

Cat Friendly Prevention for Ant Control

  • Keep the kitchen and other living spaces clean
  • Store food away carefully
  • Find where ants are coming from
  • Keep ants away from your cat’s food
  • Consult your vet and DIY a safe ant trap

What are the Symptoms of Ant Trap Poisoning in Cats?

Depending on the severity of ingested material, your cat’s symptoms may vary. Below are typical clinical signs of ant trap poisoning.

  • Excessive salivation
  • Oral cavity pain
  • Deficiency of energy
  • Involuntary vomiting
  • Intense diarrhea
  • Pain in the abdomen
  • A shivering sensation
  • Unsteadiness
  • A lack of coordination
  • Skin redness

The treatment for ant trap poisoning depends on the symptoms that your cat is exhibiting. Bring a sample of the ant poison, if possible, to your vet. Your cat can receive IV fluids and medication. Some cats can develop kidney problems, liver failure, and low blood sugar.

Call your vet and Pet Poison Helpline® at (855) 764-7661 if your cat is experiencing any symptoms or you think they got into an ant trap. Additionally, please call if you have any questions before using any ant traps.