Hi, My cat ate the contents of a silica gel pakcet. I noticed this morning that she is very lethargic, not eating, or being active like she normally is. Should I try different food or take her to a vet?
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Answered by
Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation PractitionerNeed to see a vet? Find the best vets near youI would recommend taking Beggar to your vet because anytime a cat is lethargic and not eating, they can be much sicker than we think (since cats are so good at hiding their illnesses). Regardless of the cause of Beggar's illness, she needs to be treated. However, silica gel packs are not as toxic as we generally think, so I doubt that is causing her problem. I am attaching information below from the Pet Poison Helpline website ( http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/ ) "Silica Gel
Q: Is it toxic? A: Virtually non-toxic.
Q: What is it? A: Silica is a hard porous gel that is made synthetically and utilized because of its high affinity for water. It is placed in products to control the humidity and prevent degradation. Silica gel packets are usually 1 x 2 inches and contain multiple small white, clear or opaque beads inside.
Q: Why is it labeled “do not eat”? A: Silica gel is not intended for consumption and therefor receives the label “do not eat”. The dust from the processing and creation of silica is irritating to the skin, respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract. In people who are chronically exposed to/inhaling silica, such as a employee in a mine or factory, a progressive debilitating disease called silicosis can develop. Fortunately, silica dust is rarely encountered by our furry friends. Some silica products are mixed with a moisture indicator, these indicators may be toxic in large doses. If a dye is present, the silica gel will no longer be a clear to white but instead bright orange, blue, pink or green."
Good luck! I hope that was helpful and that Beggar feels better soon. Thanks for using PetCoach.
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