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Birth Control Pills

Pet toxin reference — educational information only.
Pet toxins

What to know

Birth Control Pills — toxicity in dogs and cats

Monitor at homeApplies to: dogs and cats.

Overview

Most single birth-control pill exposures are low risk for dogs and cats, but package size and formulation matter. Some blister packs include iron-containing placebo tablets, and large ingestions can still cause gastrointestinal upset. Pets may also swallow plastic/aluminum packaging, adding obstruction risk. When possible, confirm exactly how many pills and what type were ingested.

Symptoms

Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy

Typical onset

2-12 hours

What to do

Monitor mild signs; call your vet for amount-specific advice.

This page is educational and does not replace veterinary advice. If your pet may have been exposed, call UVEC at (801) 218-2227 or ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.

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Most single birth-control pill exposures are low risk for dogs and cats, but package size and formulation matter. Some blister packs include iron-containing placebo tablets, and large ingestions can still cause gastrointestinal upset. Pets may also swallow plastic/aluminum packaging, adding obstruction risk. When possible, confirm exactly how many pills and what type were ingested.

Symptoms
Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy
Onset
2-12 hours
Recommended next step
Monitor mild signs; call your vet for amount-specific advice.
This tool is informational only and does not replace veterinary advice. If ingestion may have happened, contact UVEC at (801) 218-2227 or ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.