🧭 Part of the Hiking With Cats Hub — every guide, trail tip, and resource.
Cats investigate the world with their mouths. Outdoor cats eat grass, insects, plants, and occasionally things they shouldn't. Here's how to assess the situation and when to act.
Common Things Cats Eat Outdoors
| Item | Risk Level | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Grass | Low | Normal behavior; monitor for vomiting |
| Insects (most) | Low | Usually fine; watch for allergic reaction |
| Berries (unknown) | Moderate–High | Call ASPCA Poison Control: 888-426-4435 |
| Mushrooms (unknown) | High | Call ASPCA Poison Control immediately |
| Dead animal/prey | Moderate | Monitor for vomiting, diarrhea; vet if symptomatic |
| Standing water | Moderate | Risk of giardia, leptospirosis; vet if symptomatic |
| Toxic plants | High | Call ASPCA Poison Control immediately |
ASPCA Animal Poison Control
888-426-4435 (fee applies) — save this number in your phone before every outdoor adventure. Available 24/7.
Signs of Poisoning in Cats
If possible, identify or photograph what your cat ate — but don't delay getting help to search for it.
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Drooling excessively
- Tremors or seizures
- Dilated pupils
- Lethargy or collapse
- Difficulty breathing
If you see any of these signs after your cat ate something unknown, call ASPCA Poison Control and get to a vet immediately.
Prevention
- Keep your cat on leash so you can see what they're investigating
- Learn the toxic plants common in your hiking area
- Don't let your cat drink from standing water on the trail
- Carry the ASPCA Poison Control number: 888-426-4435
Related Reading
- The Outdoor Cat Emergency Kit
- Adventure Cat Safety Checklist
- Snake Safety for Outdoor Cats
- My Cat Was Scratched or Bitten by Wildlife
- Hiking With a Cat: Complete Troubleshooting Guide
- Adventure Cat Health & Safety: All Guides
Looking for trail safety, gear recommendations, troubleshooting, and beginner guides? Explore our complete Hiking With Cats Hub.
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