You know what they say about a cat's curiosity. If your cat's curiosity sends him into a slightly open cabinet where you keep a loosely covered bottle of toilet bowl cleaner, and he accidentally topples the bottle over and gets some on his fur, which he dutifully licks off to clean himself, well, you can guess what happens next.

Chemical poisoning is one of most deadly accidents your cat can get into, and he can be a sorry victim if he:

• Swallows a chemical or any chemically-tainted substance.
• Licks off a toxic substance from his fur.
• Eats a poisoned pest.
• Inhales toxic fumes.
• Absorbs a considerable amount through his skin.

As part of your regular housekeeping and maintenance, you maintain a stock of dozens of different solvents, detergents, pesticides and treating agents, many of which cause violent reactions in your pet. What are these chemicals that you must use in your home, yet can be fatal to your cat?

Toxic Chemicals

Caustic chemicals, such as petroleum and acids, are used primarily for dissolving grime. These chemicals are corrosive and are the most dangerous substances for your cat. They will instantly burn your pet's mouth and throat. Do NOT induce vomiting as it could cause further injury. Some common caustic chemicals are kerosene, gasoline, lighter fluid, most bathroom and regular household cleaners, and some disinfectants. A few symptoms of caustic chemical poisoning are an ulcerated, burned or inflamed tongue and mouth, bloody vomit, diarrhea and excessive salivation. If you believe you cat has ingested any caustic chemical, take him to your veterinarian immediately for appropriate treatment.

Non-corrosive chemicals are equally toxic and no less fatal to your cat. However, these chemicals are often overlooked and left in areas easily accessible by your curious cat. Non-corrosive chemicals include detergents, dyes, pesticides, glues, deodorant and fabric softeners among others. If your cat has ingested this type of chemical, he may vomit, pant, drool, have diarrhea, and be weak or have convulsions. If there is concern that your cat has gotten into a non-corrosive chemical, contact your veterinarian for treatment immediately.

In any instance where your cat's behavior and eating habits have suddenly changed or he is displaying signs of illness, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance regarding treatment. Swift action on your part may save your cat's life.

What To Do If Your Cat Has Been Poisoned

If you suspect your pet has been chemically poisoned, the first thing you must do is determine what substance is responsible. Read the toxic product's label for the list of ingredients and for any instructions on accidental ingestion. Immediately call your vet, the nearest animal-emergency clinic or the ASPCA National Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

Observe your cat's symptoms carefully. The treatment will vary according to the poison, and whether it has been ingested, inhaled or absorbed through the skin.

Always have on hand a good cat emergency handbook and a first-aid kit. Your veterinarian should be able to give you guidance on items to stock in your cat first aid kit as well as direction for use.

You should know how much your cat weighs, because treatments are often measured in proportion to the animal's weight.

If you see your cat walk through any chemicals, or have some spilled on his body, do not let him lick himself. Wash the affected area with warm water and a gentle soap, and rinse several times. Additionally, you may want to consult with your veterinarian for further instruction.

How To Safeguard Your Cat From Chemical Poisoning

Indoors

Inasmuch as most of the household chemicals in your home are essential to your sanitation and housekeeping routines, all you can do to protect your cat is to strictly cat-proof his surroundings. To safeguard your cat against chemical poisoning, check cupboards, closets and any storage areas to make sure all harmful products are out of your cat's reach and ensure that no chemical bottles are leaking. Read the labels on all cleaners and other household products for their warnings, and use your best judgment about its accessibility - if you wouldn't want a child to have access to it, keep it away from your cat.

When cleaning, especially in your bathroom, close the door while you're at work. Leaving the door ajar will risk your pet attempting to taste the cleaners you are using. Or he may walk over, or slip on, some spills on the floor - after which your pet will be sure to lick any foreign substances from his paws and fur, thus ingesting the toxic chemicals.

When painting or varnishing, or spraying herbicides or insecticides, keep your cat out of the area until long after the substance dissipates or dries. Cats are very susceptible to fumes, and can even absorb some toxins through the skin.

Outdoors

Don't forget to cat-proof the garage or shed for any chemical products you store there. Make sure the lids of all chemical products are tightly closed. Your cat may brush against a container and spill its contents, and he won't know not to walk into unsafe or contaminated areas. Put gasoline, kerosene and turpentine in a locked cabinet or storeroom. Be especially careful to stash antifreeze out of reach; with the sweet taste of ethylene glycol, it's one of the most common agents of animal poisoning.

Make sure you also cat-proof your garden. Snail bait and other ground chemicals can be deadly to cats. Rodent poison (and poisoned rodents) is another potential source of trouble. And watch what you spray on your plants, too; your cat can become very sick by nibbling on a leaf sprayed with pesticides. Check your local nursery for harmless, organic alternatives.