Is Mothballs Toxic to Cats?

Mothballs are concentrated pesticides that slowly release toxic fumes. They contain either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, both of which are toxic to pets. Ingestion or prolonged fume exposure can cause serious poisoning.

Quick Answer

Yes, mothballs is toxic to cats. Dangerous — contains naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene. Mothballs are concentrated pesticides that slowly release toxic fumes. They contain either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, both of which are toxic to pets. Ingestion or prolonged fume exposure can cause serious poisoning. Watch for symptoms like vomiting and abdominal pain and seizures and tremors.

Emergency

If your cat was exposed, contact your vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435 immediately.

Symptoms to Watch For

Vomiting and abdominal pain
Seizures and tremors
Liver damage
Hemolytic anemia (red blood cell destruction)
Methemoglobinemia (brown-colored gums)

Timeline

Symptoms from ingestion within hours. Fume exposure effects can be gradual over days/weeks.

Treatment

Contact vet immediately if ingested
IV fluids and liver support
Blood transfusion for severe anemia
Methylene blue for methemoglobinemia
Oxygen therapy

Prevention

Use cedar chips or lavender sachets instead
If mothballs are necessary, keep in sealed, inaccessible containers
The fumes alone can be harmful in enclosed spaces
Old-style naphthalene mothballs are more toxic

Other Toxins Dangerous to Cats

🐕 Dogs version →🐰 Rabbits version →🐦 Birds version →🐹 Hamsters version →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mothballs toxic to cats?▼

Dangerous — contains naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene. Mothballs are concentrated pesticides that slowly release toxic fumes. They contain either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, both of which are toxic to pets. Ingestion or prolonged fume exposure can cause serious poisoning.

What happens if my cat is exposed to mothballs?▼

Symptoms include: Vomiting and abdominal pain; Seizures and tremors; Liver damage. Symptoms from ingestion within hours. Fume exposure effects can be gradual over days/weeks.

What should I do if my cat ingested mothballs?▼

Contact vet immediately if ingested. IV fluids and liver support. Blood transfusion for severe anemia.

How can I protect my cat from mothballs?▼

Use cedar chips or lavender sachets instead. If mothballs are necessary, keep in sealed, inaccessible containers. The fumes alone can be harmful in enclosed spaces. Old-style naphthalene mothballs are more toxic.