Why three bulbs overwhelm a cat's small body
At 3.5 kg, your cat ingested a massive dose relative to her size — tulip bulbs concentrate toxins in their base. Chewing (versus swallowing whole) released more irritants, hence the immediate vomiting. The real danger now is secondary dehydration and electrolyte loss from those two vomits, which hit cats harder than dogs.
Watch the litter box — if she strains without producing urine or has diarrhea, her kidneys need checking. Cats hide pain by staying still; don't mistake quietness for recovery. Set up a confined space with water and a shallow litter pan so you can track output.
Neurological signs that demand instant response
Tulip toxins can cause ataxia (wobbliness) as they affect the nervous system. If her front legs slip when landing from a jump or she walks like she's drunk, this is progressing. Keep her on carpeted surfaces — cats panic when their legs fail, risking injury from flailing.
Tremors present as whisker twitching or a rippling skin effect along her back. Time any episodes; seizures lasting over 30 seconds or occurring in clusters mean immediate transport to the ER. Record video if possible — vets need to see the movement pattern.
Post-vet hydration strategies
After IV fluids, offer room-temperature bone broth in a saucer, not water — the scent encourages drinking while being gentle on her stomach. Add extra water bowls near her resting spots; a weakened cat won't seek distant resources.
Hydration shows in skin elasticity — gently pinch the scruff. It should snap back within two seconds. Slow return means subcutaneous fluids may still be needed. Check her gums every few hours; they should be salmon pink, not pale or brick red.
The critical 48-hour monitoring period
Most toxin reactions peak within two days. Set alarms to check her every three hours tonight — look for changes in breathing rate (normal is 20-30 breaths per minute while resting) or new vomiting. Save any hairballs or vomit for the vet to inspect.
Appetite is your best progress marker. Try hand-feeding boiled chicken — if she refuses even that after 24 hours post-discharge, she needs re-evaluation. Most cats recover fully with prompt care, but liver enzymes should be checked at her next routine visit.
The step-by-step response, from the first minute to the vet visit, is in our Tulip, Daffodil & Hyacinth Bulbs emergency guide.