Specific toad species release toxic chemicals that are harmful to cats. Toad poisoning happens when a cat ingests a toad that has toxins. The most common mild symptoms of toad poisoning are vomiting, oral irritation, and drooling. However, some toads can cause severe symptoms such as diarrhoea, neurological symptoms, respiratory distress, and heart-related issues. The Sonoran Desert/ Colorado River toad and cane toad are two toad species that can cause these severe symptoms.
Cats are not the only pets that experience toad poisoning, even dogs. Their chances of being poisoned are higher than those of cats. The best way to prevent your pet from experiencing toad poisoning is to keep him indoors, especially during the rainy season. This is when toads are most active, between March and September.
Toad poisoning does not only happen when a pet directly eats a toad. It also occurs when your pet accidentally drinks water with the eggs of a toxic toad. Another way is when the poisonous chemicals from toads contact an open wound on your pet’s skin.
Any sign of illness exhibited by your pet should require a visit to your veterinary hospital New Orleans, LA for proper medical attention.