Familiars and pets: Safety about tools

 

Trigger warning: Contains elements of death that some may find upsetting 

Today's post regards a rather sad occurrence in my life. On the 24th of September. My cat Midnight had to be put to sleep.

Midnight was born in May 2006 in Germany and had been rescued by my sister's friend at the time. We brought her back to the United Kingdom where she has always been safe and well cared for, she has survived cancer, being clipped by a car and numerous fights with our local three-legged Tomcat.

On the night of the 23rd  of September, it was raining heavily, and like usual I said my goodnight to my dear one in her little bed. Something I do every night. During the early hours of the 24th, during this storm. My cat was poisoned. Most likely from a chemical of some sort. We found her mid-morning cold, unable to breathe and in incredible pain, she couldn't even move. We had to have her put down as we were just too late to help her.  Now as an experienced animal owner I can guarantee we had nothing toxic for the cat to consume. But it's vitally important to any animal owning people including witches to ensure that any products they have are safe for their animal, be this for your practice or for gardening, for your vehicles etc. So consider this story a warning. My cat died at age 14 after travelling across the sea and surviving two potentially life-threatening situations. She was the picture of health but died a very painful and undeserved passing. 

Things in your practice to keep an eye out for are:

Incense: sticks and cones
Smoke: from candles, resin, oils 
Resin/ oils
Herbs and plants- check your plants, flowers and herbs are pet safe before bringing them into your home and garden.
Chemicals: Rat poison and Antifreeze are extremely toxic to animals and believe me they are silly enough to consume them. 

Keep toxic items out of reach. Apparently, sardines in brine and oil can help flush out some toxins if administered/ eaten early.

Signs of poisoning:

Vomiting- especially more than once in a short time period
Diarrhoea
Frothing of the mouth

Weakness
Spasming/ fitting
Lethargy- can't move or tired
Breathing difficulties- panting, strained breathing/wheezing etc.
Refusal or disinterest to eat.


If your animal is acting out of sorts get them to a vet, call them, get their advice. It could save their life.

And to Midnight, Goodnight baby, forever rest safely  x