First Aid Kit for Cat Emergencies
Keeping a first aid kit on hand for emergencies can be helpful for minor cuts and wounds, as well as accidental poisonings. In addition to the standard items in any first aid kit, include:
* Hydrogen peroxide (3%) works well to induce vomiting, but first talk to your vet to determine when you do or do not want to induce vomiting; Pepto-Bismol- contains aspirin which is toxic to cats, therefore although it can be effective for upset stomachs in dogs, avoid this preparation in cats; Kao-Pectate (for diarrhea-½ teaspoon), generic Benadryl (for allergic reactions); saline eye drops (to flush out eye contaminants); and artificial tear ointment (to lubricate eyes after flushing).
* Other useful items include a rectal thermometer, a turkey baster or bulb syringe (good to flush wounds), an eye dropper (good for giving certain medications by mouth)
* white petroleum jelly, bandage scissors, gauze sponges and bandages, a self-adhering athletic bandage, forceps (to remove stings), and rubbing alcohol.
* Dishwashing liquids (with a mild grease-cutting action) can be used to bathe the cat after skin contamination to reduce exposure to flea products and insecticides. Rubber gloves will protect you while bathing your cat.
