Is Pennies & Zinc Objects Toxic to Cats?

US pennies minted after 1982 are 97.5% zinc with a copper coating. When swallowed, stomach acid dissolves the zinc, causing zinc toxicosis — a condition that destroys red blood cells and can be fatal.

Quick Answer

Yes, pennies & zinc objects is toxic to cats. Dangerous — zinc toxicosis from pennies minted after 1982. US pennies minted after 1982 are 97.5% zinc with a copper coating. When swallowed, stomach acid dissolves the zinc, causing zinc toxicosis — a condition that destroys red blood cells and can be fatal. Watch for symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea and orange-colored stool or urine.

Emergency

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

Symptoms to Watch For

Vomiting and diarrhea
Orange-colored stool or urine
Pale gums (anemia)
Lethargy and weakness
Jaundice (yellow skin/eyes)

Timeline

Symptoms can develop within 1-3 days of ingestion.

Treatment

X-ray to confirm penny location
Endoscopic or surgical removal
Blood transfusion if severe anemia
IV fluids and supportive care
Chelation therapy in severe zinc poisoning

Prevention

Keep loose change off surfaces
Watch for zinc in toys, hardware, and jewelry
Dogs are most commonly affected — they swallow things
Game tokens and some nuts/bolts also contain zinc

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pennies & zinc objects toxic to cats?▼

Dangerous — zinc toxicosis from pennies minted after 1982. US pennies minted after 1982 are 97.5% zinc with a copper coating. When swallowed, stomach acid dissolves the zinc, causing zinc toxicosis — a condition that destroys red blood cells and can be fatal.

What happens if my cat is exposed to pennies & zinc objects?▼

Symptoms include: Vomiting and diarrhea; Orange-colored stool or urine; Pale gums (anemia). Symptoms can develop within 1-3 days of ingestion.

What should I do if my cat ingested pennies & zinc objects?▼

X-ray to confirm penny location. Endoscopic or surgical removal. Blood transfusion if severe anemia.

How can I protect my cat from pennies & zinc objects?▼

Keep loose change off surfaces. Watch for zinc in toys, hardware, and jewelry. Dogs are most commonly affected — they swallow things. Game tokens and some nuts/bolts also contain zinc.