Anaphylaxis

Bites

Burns

CPR

Cuts and scrapes

Electrocution

Fractures

Heat stroke

Poisons

Shock

Wounds

Anaphylaxis is a sudden and potentially deadly allergic reaction. It can be caused by insect bites, food, medications, vaccines, or anything a cat is allergic to. Symptoms include sudden diarrhea and/or vomiting, shock, seizures. and even death. The gums will be pale and the cat may feel cold. It is vital to get immediate veterinary attention. If you carry an Epi-pen, or epinephrine, inject the cat right away, it could be the difference between life and death. The cat may also need oxygen, IV fluids, and medication to recover so don't waste any time in seeking medical attention. There is no way to tell what might cause an allergic reaction in an animal, and it is a good idea to keep an Epi-pen in your first aid kit.

Bites can be dangerous to your cat because of the risk of contacting diseases. A cat who has been bitten by another animal must be seen by a vet as soon as possible. Rinse the affected area with cool water, and control bleeding by applying pressure. The vet will clean and drain the bite, administer antibiotics, and test for diseases. It is important to keep your cat's vaccinations current, as this helps reduce the risk of contracting rabies or FeLV (feline leukemia.) However, FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus) is not preventable with a vaccine, and Bailey recommends that all cats be kept indoors for safety's sake.

Burns are a common injury in the home. Stove tops, curling irons, candles, and hot coffee are just a few examples of what a curious kitty might get into. If your cat has been burned by a hot or caustic substance place them immediately into cool water and call your vet. Transport kitty to the vet with cool, wet towels on the affected area. Have the number to the nearest emergency animal clinic handy in case of an after hours emergency. The faster your cat gets treatment, the smaller the risk of infection.

CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, can save your cat's life. If your cat has stopped breathing and/or their heart has stopped beating, you must be able to perform CPR until veterinary professionals can stabilize the cat. For information on lifesaving techniques, please visit the following link: http://www.peteducation.com

Cuts and scrapes are minor emergencies that can usually be taken care of quickly and easily, as long as there is little to no bleeding and no sign of infection. One common source of cuts is an over-trimmed nail. If you are cutting kitty's nails you should try to cut the clear part of the nail and avoid the pink part, or "quick". If you do cut the quick it can be remedied using styptic powder. This will cause the bleeding to stop quickly by forming a clot. Styptic powder is available in pet stores and should be part of your first aid kit. For other types of cuts and scrapes soap and lukewarm water work best. It's always a good idea to have your vet evaluate the injury.

Electrocution can happen when a curious kitty gets into loose wires, Christmas lights, or other common devices. A cat can receive a burn in their mouth as well as damage to their lungs, which can fill with fluid and cause difficulty breathing or even death. Medications are available to veterinarians to treat lung and burn damage, and you should not hesitate to get your cat medical attention. Prevention is the best medicine. Try getting down on all fours to see things from your cat's point of view, and then remove anything that might potentially be harmful.

Fractures can happen as a result of a fall, an automobile accident, or even getting caught in a door. If you suspect that your cat has a fractured limb call your vet right away. For a closed fracture, try to stabilize the limb before transporting the animal. A popsicle stick or paper towel cardboard tube held on with tape is a sufficient to splint a limb for transport. If the cat has an open fracture, that is, where you see bone coming through the skin, first disinfect the surface and cover with a sterile dressing if possible before splinting. If there is severe bleeding wrap an ice pack into the splint. With any fracture it is important to seek immediate veterinary attention.

Heat stroke can happen very quickly, especially if an animal is left in area without adequate ventilation such as a hot car. If your cat becomes overheated place them in a cool water right away and call the vet. When transporting the cat to the vet, wrap it in cool, wet towels.

Poisons can be found in the home in the form of plants, cleaners, or other chemicals. For example, antifreeze has a sweet taste that appeals to animals, and it takes less than a teaspoon of it to be deadly. If your cat swallows a chemical or has sudden vomiting, diarrhea, or a chemical burn on their skin, call your vet immediately and bring a sample of the poison with you to the vet. Do not induce vomiting unless the vet tells you to. Post this phone number on your fridge: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Hotline: (888) 426-4435. However, be advised that you will be charged a $55 consultation fee when you call. For a list of plants that are poisonous to cats click here.

Shock happens when an animal has sustained a serious injury, it is the body's coping mechanism. Unfortunately, it can lead to cardiovascular collapse and death.. Signs of shock are lethargy, confusion, and slow capillary refill. Capillary refill is determined by pressing a a spot of your cat's gums. When you press the spot it will turn white. Capillary refill is how many seconds it takes for the white spot you just pressed to fill back in pink. Anything slower than two seconds is a problem. Some cats can go into shock without showing this symptom, so it's important to get the cat to a vet quickly. Try to keep the cat conscious with the sound of your voice, and try to stabilize injuries en route to the vet.

Wounds can happen accidentally in the home, outdoors, or due to an altercation with another animal. A wounded cat needs immediate veterinary attention. If bleeding is severe apply pressure with your hand, and the cleanest material available. Try not to touch an open wound with your bare hands. If bleeding doesn't slow or stop after applying pressure a tourniquet may be necessary. Remember, a tourniquet can cause permanent damage and should only be used as a last resort when blood loss is extreme. For information on using tourniquets, please see the following link: www.sniksnak.com