Snake bites can be extremely dangerous and even fatal for our feline companions. As curious and active hunters, cats are at risk of encountering venomous snakes in yards and on walks. Though cats tend to be more resilient to snake venom than other pets, a bite should still be considered a veterinary emergency. Understanding the risks, symptoms, and proper response to a cat being bitten by a snake can help pet owners provide life-saving first aid. This guide will provide cat owners with the essential information needed to protect cats from snake bites and increase the chances of survival if envenomation occurs.
Types of Venomous Snakes
The main types of venomous snakes that can pose a threat to cats in the United States include:
- Rattlesnakes – Found throughout the continental U.S., rattlesnakes account for the majority of venomous snakebites. Their venom contains hemotoxins that destroy tissue and impair blood clotting. Some species like the Eastern diamondback are extremely poisonous (https://scholar.archive.org/work/apzn2v3vb5d4paspthk7zahnga/access/wayback/http://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/6610/d758b4cf9e439ee976354153f0d48a457c43.pdf).
- Copperheads – Mostly found in the eastern and central U.S., copperheads have hemotoxic venom that causes tissue damage at the bite site. Their venom is less potent than rattlesnakes.
- Cottonmouths/Water moccasins – Located in southeastern U.S. near water, these snakes have a potent hemotoxic venom similar to rattlesnakes.
- Coral snakes – Found in southern U.S. states, coral snakes possess a powerful neurotoxic venom that paralyzes the nervous system.
While not all venomous snake species are deadly, even snakes with milder venom can make cats seriously ill. Quick treatment is essential.
Snake Bite Symptoms in Cats
Some key signs that a cat has been bitten by a venomous snake include:
- Sudden vomiting or retching
- Drooling and difficulty swallowing
- Dilated pupils
- Weakness and collapse
- Rapid heart rate and breathing problems
- Muscle tremors or twitching
- Partial paralysis
- Excessive salivation and foaming at the mouth
Identifying snake bites in cats can be tricky as the puncture wounds may be very small and initially go unnoticed. Bites often occur on the head, neck or limbs. Some signs that should raise suspicion of a snake bite include sudden onset of symptoms like vomiting, dilated pupils and muscle tremors without another obvious cause.
Cats are more resistant to snake venom than other pets, so symptoms may take longer to appear after a bite. However, envenomation can occur rapidly and owners should monitor the cat closely for at least 24 hours for any symptoms developing. A lack of immediate symptoms does not rule out a snake bite.
According to the Lort Smith Animal Hospital, “Snake bites may initially go undetected in cats.” They advise owners to watch for symptoms like twitching, drooling, vomiting and dilated pupils that could signal a bite even if no puncture wound is visible.
First Aid for Snake Bites
If your cat has been bitten by a venomous snake, it is crucial to provide first aid as soon as possible before transporting them to the vet for further treatment. Some important first aid steps include:
Wound Care – Gently wash the bite area with soap and water if possible. Do not try to suck out the venom. Apply a light bandage wrap to control bleeding if needed.
Immobilization – Restrict your cat’s movement as much as possible to prevent the venom from spreading through their body. Gently place them in a pet carrier or crate.
Transportation – Get your cat to the vet clinic immediately. Call ahead to notify them you are bringing in a snake bite victim. Time is critical, so drive as fast as safely possible.
According to Catster, “The most important thing is to get to your vet as quickly as possible after the bite occurs. Antivenoms or antiserums are most effective within the first six hours” (Source). Stay calm but act swiftly to get your cat medical attention.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Veterinarians will perform a physical exam and look for signs of envenomation such as swelling, bleeding, bruising, and pain at the bite site. They may run blood tests to check for abnormalities and take X-rays or an ultrasound to examine internal organs for damage. The vet may also identify the type of snake using a description of the snake or by analyzing venom extracted from the bite wound (UC Davis, 2022).
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing further damage from the venom. Cats will be hospitalized and given IV fluids, pain medication, antibiotics, and medication to control nausea and vomiting. Wounds are cleaned and monitored for infection. Antihistamines may be used to reduce swelling and itching. In severe cases, a cat may need a blood transfusion or breathing support.
Antivenom can be administered to neutralize the snake venom. This is most effective within the first 4-6 hours after the bite. The specific antivenom depends on the snake species and is given slowly via IV infusion to watch for allergic reactions. Supportive care continues even after antivenom to manage any lingering effects (WagWalking, 2017). With prompt vet care, most cats survive snakebites, although recovery time varies based on the severity of envenomation.
Prognosis and Mortality Rate
The prognosis for a cat that has suffered a venomous snake bite depends on several factors, including the type of snake, the location of the bite, the amount of venom injected, and the timeliness of treatment (https://www.vetsmall.theclinics.com/article/S0195-5616(11)00157-4/pdf). Cats tend to have a better prognosis than dogs when bitten by snakes. Research indicates cats are twice as likely to survive a venomous snakebite compared to dogs.
One study found the mortality rate for cats bitten by an eastern brown snake was 17% without antivenom treatment, compared to a 69% mortality rate for dogs (https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/05/200518184916.htm). The higher survival rate in cats is likely due to their innate resistance and slower progression of envenomation.
However, mortality rates can vary significantly depending on the snake species. Bites from powerful neurotoxic venoms like that of a black mamba can be rapidly fatal for cats without prompt veterinary treatment. Overall, the prognosis is generally good for cats that receive appropriate first aid and antivenom therapy within the first few hours after being bitten.
Prevention Tips
There are several steps cat owners can take to help prevent snake bites:
When letting your cat outside, be aware of areas snakes may hide like woodpiles, overgrown vegetation, and rocks. Avoid tall grasses and keep your yard well-maintained. Wearing bells on your cat’s collar can also help alert snakes to your cat’s presence.
Removing areas around your home that can attract snakes is also important. Eliminate any outdoor food sources like pet food bowls and garbage cans, and make sure rodents are not getting into sheds or garages. Fix any holes or gaps in your home’s foundation.
Consider installing snake-proof fencing made with special mesh around your yard to keep snakes out of your property. This fencing can be partially buried to prevent snakes from burrowing underneath.
You can also have a professional remove any snakes from your property, trim overgrown areas, and seal up entry points. Routine inspections can help identify potential snake habitats.
When walking your cat, keep them on a leash and avoid high grass or shrubbery where snakes may reside. Be vigilant in watching where your cat goes.
During warmer months when snakes are most active, limit your cat’s unattended outdoor time. And if you live in an area prone to venomous snakes, speak to your vet about snake aversion training.
Snake Aversion Training
Snake aversion training can help teach cats to avoid snakes and prevent dangerous interactions. The goal is to condition the cat to associate snakes with something unpleasant but not harmful. This causes the cat to avoid snakes in the future.
A common technique is to use a spray bottle or hose to spray water at the cat whenever a (fake) snake is presented. The cat learns to associate the sight and smell of snakes with getting wet, which cats generally dislike. It’s important to reward calm behavior and only spray when the cat approaches. Over multiple training sessions, the cat learns that snakes = getting wet and will keep a distance.
Other options include making a hissing sound, shaking a can filled with pennies or stones, or using a pet-safe citronella spray when the snake appears. The key is timing – the deterrent must happen right as the cat notices the snake. Done consistently, the cat will avoid snakes to avoid the unpleasant stimulus. Never hit, yell at, or physically harm the cat.
For best results, use a fake snake that looks and smells realistic at first. Slowly transition to using dead snakes, then live snakes in cages. Work with a trainer experienced in cat behavior. Go slowly and keep sessions positive yet firm. With time and consistency, cats can learn snakes are to be avoided.
Sources:
http://www.clickertraining.com/snake-avoidance
https://karenpryoracademy.com/live-classes/snake-avoidance-training-with-ken-ramirez/
What to Do If Your Cat Is Bitten
If you suspect your cat has been bitten by a venomous snake, immediate veterinary care is crucial. Here are the steps you should take:
- Safely move your cat away from the snake to avoid additional bites.
- Keep your cat calm and limit their movement to slow the spread of venom. Do not allow them to run around.
- If possible, keep the bite site at or below heart level to slow circulation.
- Watch closely for symptoms of snake envenomation like dilated pupils, swelling, seizures, vomiting, or collapse. If your cat collapses, perform rescue breathing.
- Carefully clean the bite area with soap and water if it can be done safely, but avoid excessive washing as this can increase absorption of the venom.
- If the bite is on a limb, apply a splint or sling to immobilize the area.
- Do not apply ice, tourniquets, or cut the wound.
- Transport your cat to the veterinarian immediately. Call ahead so antivenom can be prepared.
- Be prepared to provide details about the snake’s appearance and your cat’s symptoms.
Snake bites can rapidly become fatal if left untreated, so time is of the essence. Even if your cat seems fine or the bite is mild, take them to the vet right away as symptoms can develop quickly. With prompt veterinary treatment, many cats can recover fully from venomous snake bites.
Conclusion
Snake bites in cats, while scary, are often survivable with proper first aid and veterinary treatment. Key steps include keeping the cat calm and immobilized, applying a pressure bandage, and rushing to the vet clinic. Anti-venom, IV fluids, pain medication, and other supportive care can help counteract the venom. Prevention is critical through snake avoidance training and keeping yards clear of hiding spots. Though a bite can be life-threatening, the prognosis for house cats is often good with timely medical care. Stay vigilant about snakes, but know that many felines recover fully with proper care after a bite.