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Mothballs

Pet toxin reference — educational information only.
Pet toxins

What to know

Mothballs — toxicity in dogs and cats

EmergencyApplies to: dogs and cats.

Overview

Mothballs may contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, both of which can be toxic to pets in different ways. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal upset, neurologic signs, and blood abnormalities; naphthalene products may trigger hemolytic anemia. Pets are often exposed when mothballs are used in storage bins or placed in accessible areas. Product identification helps guide treatment.

Symptoms

Vomiting, tremors, weakness, seizures

Typical onset

1-12 hours

What to do

Emergency care immediately; bring product details.

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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Mothballs may contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, both of which can be toxic to pets in different ways. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal upset, neurologic signs, and blood abnormalities; naphthalene products may trigger hemolytic anemia. Pets are often exposed when mothballs are used in storage bins or placed in accessible areas. Product identification helps guide treatment.

Symptoms
Vomiting, tremors, weakness, seizures
Onset
1-12 hours
What to do now
Emergency care immediately; bring product details.
Call UVEC now: (801) 218-2227
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.