Effective Home Treatments For Snake Bites On Cats

Snake bites on cats can be dangerous and even life-threatening, so it's important to know how to recognise and treat them. The first step is to determine whether the snake was venomous or non-venomous. If your cat has been bitten by a venomous snake, you may notice symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, weakness, muscle twitching, dilated pupils, seizures, paralysis, and shock. The bite itself will likely leave two large puncture wounds caused by the snake's fangs, with bleeding at the site due to the venom's effect on the blood's ability to clot. If bitten by a non-venomous snake, you will see teeth marks but not fang marks, and there may be little to no swelling, redness, or bleeding.

While there are some home remedies that can be applied in the event of a snake bite, it is always best to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Some sources suggest flushing the bite area with 3% hydrogen peroxide, applying gentle pressure to control bleeding, and keeping your cat calm and quiet to prevent the venom from spreading. However, it is important to note that attempts to treat snake bites at home can be ineffective and potentially harmful. The use of ice, cold packs, hot packs, sprays, tourniquets, suction, or shock are all discouraged.

To summarise, if your cat has been bitten by a snake, it is crucial to act quickly. Contact your local vet immediately and try to keep your cat calm and still during transport to the clinic. Providing information about the snake, such as its appearance or a photo, can help the vet identify the species and determine the appropriate treatment.

Identify the snake: take a photo, note its appearance and behaviour

If your cat has been bitten by a snake, it is important to identify the snake to help your vet administer the appropriate treatment. Here are some steps to help you identify the snake:

Take a photo: If possible, try to take a clear photo of the snake from a safe distance. Do not approach or try to handle the snake, especially if it is venomous. A photo can provide valuable information about the snake's colour, pattern, and size, which can aid in its identification.

Note its appearance: Pay attention to the snake's physical characteristics, such as its colour, length, and pattern. Observe the shape of its head and pupils. Venomous snakes typically have elliptical pupils similar to a cat's, while non-venomous snakes usually have round pupils. The head shape can also vary, with venomous snakes often having angled heads like a diamond or triangle. Additionally, note any distinctive marks or features, such as stripes, crossbands, or blotches.

Observe its behaviour: Snakes typically only bite when they feel threatened or provoked. Observe the snake's behaviour, such as whether it is hissing, coiling, or striking. Take note of any unusual movements or patterns.

By following these steps, you can gather valuable information about the snake that bit your cat. This information will be crucial in helping your veterinarian identify the snake species and determine the appropriate treatment plan for your cat. Remember, always prioritise your safety and do not put yourself at risk when trying to identify the snake.

Keep the cat calm and quiet: limit activity to prevent the spread of venom

If your cat has been bitten by a snake, it is important to keep them calm and quiet to prevent the spread of venom. Here are some detailed instructions to help you do that:

• Minimize movement and excitement: Even if your cat appears alert and able to walk, it is best to carry them to the car and have someone else drive you to the veterinary clinic. Keeping your cat still will help to slow the spread of venom through their body.
• Limit their activity: Do not allow your cat to walk or run around, as this will increase their heart rate and stimulate blood circulation, causing the venom to spread more quickly.
• Keep them in a quiet environment: A quiet, calm environment will help to keep your cat relaxed and reduce their agitation.
• Monitor their symptoms: After a venomous snakebite, your cat may become lethargic, start vomiting, or show signs of weakness. They may also experience muscle twitching, dilated pupils, seizures, paralysis, or shock. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek immediate veterinary attention.
• Provide comfort: Your cat may be in pain and distress due to the snakebite. Speak to them in a calm, soothing voice, and gently pet them if they are receptive.
• Avoid stimulating them: Avoid any activities that may excite or stimulate your cat, such as playing or roughhousing. Keep interactions calm and gentle.

Remember, it is crucial to seek veterinary care as soon as possible if your cat has been bitten by a snake. These measures are intended to prevent the spread of venom while you are on your way to the veterinarian.

Do not attempt first aid: ice, cold packs, hot packs, suction, etc. can be harmful

If your cat has been bitten by a snake, it is important to remain calm and take immediate action. While snakebites are uncommon in cats, they can be very serious and even fatal if left untreated. Here are some reasons why you should not attempt certain first aid measures and instead seek professional veterinary help:

Ice, Cold Packs, and Hot Packs

Applying ice, cold packs, or hot packs to a snakebite should be avoided. These methods do not slow down the spread of venom and can actually cause further damage to the skin and underlying tissues. In the case of ice or cold packs, the extreme cold can constrict the smaller blood vessels, leading to dramatic tissue damage when combined with viper venoms. Additionally, when the ice is removed and the limb rewarms, the venom may become active again.

Suction

It is not recommended to cut open the wound and attempt to suck out the venom. This method is ineffective and can cause more pain and suffering for your cat. It may also increase the risk of infection and cause further damage to nerves, tendons, and blood vessels. Cutting too deeply could even lead to fatal blood loss.

Tourniquets and Compression Bandages

The use of tourniquets or compression bandages near the bite area should be avoided. These can restrict blood flow and cause damage to blood vessels, leading to serious complications such as gangrene. Additionally, releasing and retightening a tourniquet can pump the venom into the body, increasing its circulation.

Other First Aid Measures

Other first aid measures such as electrocuting the bite area or using commercial "snakebite kits" are not advised. These methods can be harmful and reduce the chances of survival. The best course of action is to seek veterinary care as soon as possible and keep your cat calm and quiet in the meantime.

Call the vet: inform them you are on your way, they may need to prepare antivenom

If your cat has been bitten by a snake, it is important to act quickly. Call the vet immediately and inform them that you are on your way. Provide as much detail as you can about the snake, including its appearance and any identifying marks. If you are unsure of the snake species, take a photo if possible, or bring a dead snake with you for identification. The vet will need this information to prepare the appropriate antivenom treatment.

It is crucial to seek veterinary treatment as soon as possible, as snake bites can be life-threatening for cats. Do not attempt to administer any home remedies or first aid beyond gentle pressure to control bleeding. Keep your cat calm and still during transport to the vet to discourage the spread of venom. If your cat is alert and able to walk, carry them to the car and have someone else drive to the clinic.

Snake bites from both venomous and non-venomous snakes can be dangerous for cats. Venomous bites will typically present as two fang-shaped puncture marks, with pain, bleeding, and significant swelling. Non-venomous bites are often horseshoe- or U-shaped with multiple teeth marks and may be accompanied by pain and/or bleeding. In both cases, the wound should be treated as soon as possible to prevent infection.

Transport the cat to the vet: carry the cat to the car and get someone else to drive

If your cat has been bitten by a snake, it is important to act quickly. Call ahead to your vet to ensure they have antivenin on hand, and get a referral to another clinic if they do not. If you can, take a photo of the snake from a safe distance, and keep it calm and still—do not let it walk or run around. Wrap your cat in a towel or sheet and carry it to the car. Get someone else to drive you to the vet, as the more quickly your cat receives treatment, the better its chances of survival.

Frequently asked questions