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Many cases of snake bite occur in people and animals in Australia each year. In the outskirts of the Perth metropolitan area we see can see at least 30-40 cases of animals being bitten each year. The two types of snakes most commonly involved are the Tiger snake and the Brown snake (Dugite), both of which are very dangerous and able to kill an average dog or cat within hours.

As a guide Tiger snakes tend to be found near water or irrigated areas where as Dugites are more common in drier bush areas. Other snakes such as the Mulga and Gwardar are in the area, but much less prevalent.

If you suspect that your cat has been bitten by a snake you must contact our hospital as soon as possible on (08) 6489 2222.

We are open 7.30am to 6.00 pm weekdays and 8.00am to 2.00pm Saturdays. We are closed Sundays and Public Holidays.

If you require an emergency appointment outside of our opening hours you should contact Perth Vet Emergency on 1300 040 400 (24 hours).

Signs to look for are:

• Weakness, collapse
• Vomiting
• Not able to blink the eyelids
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Blood in urine
• Comatose.
• Snake bites in cats tend to have milder signs than dogs. They will often present as being ‘dizzy’ with dilated pupils and no ability to blink their eyelids.

Survival Rates of snake bites in cats:

90-95% of cats will survive a snake bite if treated with anti-venom. If not, the chance is 40-50%.

Treatment of snake bites in cats

When treating a snake bite, we must act fast. The animal is given placed onto an intra-venous fluid system and appropriate anti-venom is then given very slowly. Multiple vials of antivenin can be required to reverse the effect of the toxin.

With severe envenomation animals will be paralysed and not be able to breath on their own. In these circumstances oxygen therapy will be required and we will need to attach an artificial respirator to the animal.

There can be many other serious effects on the body systems as a result of the toxins in the venom including bleeding complications and organ system failure.

For this reason treatment costs can be in excess of $2000-3000 depending on the level of envenomation. It is important to note that even with treatment, some animals may not respond to the anti-venom.

Response (if successful) is usually noted within 1-6 hours, depending on how many vials of antivenin are required.

If animals recover, they are usually able to go home within 24-48 hours of admittance. Some animals may require longer hospitalisation and monitoring to ensure complete recovery.

Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided on this page does not replace the advice of your veterinarian. If you are concerned about your cat’s health in any way, we strongly recommend you seek veterinary advice. 

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