Why vomiting changes the vet's approach
Twelve hours in, the mouth irritation has likely peaked, but vomiting means some crystals reached the stomach. The vet will listen for gut sounds and check her gums for pallor — repeated vomiting can cause microscopic stomach bleeding from the sharp crystals. They're less worried about the original leaf and more about secondary dehydration.
Bloodwork here focuses on kidney values (creatinine, BUN) and electrolytes rather than liver enzymes. Even mild imbalances get aggressive treatment because cats crash fast. Expect subcutaneous or IV fluids for at least 12–24 hours.
The three-phase recovery timeline
Phase one (first 6 hours post-treatment) is about stabilizing hydration. She may still drool from residual mouth pain despite medication. Phase two (next 18 hours) involves reintroducing water via syringe or dripping it on her paws if she refuses to lap. Only in phase three (day two onward) should normal eating resume.
Recovery isn't linear — some cats rebound fast only to relapse from hidden throat swelling. The vet will show you how to check her gum color and skin tenting at home between rechecks.
What her vomit reveals about the damage
Yellow or foamy vomit suggests stomach irritation without bleeding, while coffee-ground texture means blood was present. Save a sample if possible — the vet may examine it under a microscope for crystal fragments. Clear vomit is actually more concerning at this stage, indicating possible bile duct irritation.
They'll likely prescribe a GI protectant like sucralfate suspension, which coats ulcerated areas. Don't be alarmed if her stool is slightly loose for a day — that's the oxalates passing through.
When to rush back post-discharge
Return immediately if her vomit contains fresh blood (bright red streaks) or she develops a head tilt (rare but possible nerve irritation from electrolyte crashes). Panting or open-mouth breathing also warrants instant callback — delayed throat swelling can appear up to 36 hours later.
Most cats fully recover within three days, but her appetite might stay finicky for a week. Offer bland, warmed food in tiny portions every 4–6 hours rather than free-feeding.
The step-by-step response, from the first minute to the vet visit, is in our Pothos, Philodendron & Monstera emergency guide.