Garden and pest control
Is slug pellets toxic to cats and dogs?
Also sold as metaldehyde, snail bait
Cats
Highly toxicDogs
Highly toxicMetaldehyde slug pellets cause severe tremors and seizures within an hour or two. It is an emergency. Some pellets use iron phosphate instead, which is less dangerous but still needs advice.
By Maya HartIf your pet got into it
- This is an emergency.
- Go to a vet now and take the packet.
Signs to watch for
- Anxiety and restlessness
- Drooling and vomiting
- Tremors that get worse
- Very high temperature
- Seizures
How much is dangerous
A small handful can poison a dog. Check the label for the active ingredient.
Keeping it safe
- Use pet-friendly slug control such as barriers or beer traps
- Store garden chemicals locked away
The details
Metaldehyde has been banned for outdoor use in some countries, including the UK since 2022, but old stock remains in sheds and it is still sold elsewhere. Dogs find the pellets tasty. Treatment focuses on controlling tremors and temperature, and most dogs treated quickly recover.
Questions owners ask
Is slug pellets toxic to cats?
Yes — highly toxic.
Is slug pellets toxic to dogs?
Yes — highly toxic.
How much is dangerous?
A small handful can poison a dog. Check the label for the active ingredient.
What should I do if my pet got into it?
This is an emergency. Go to a vet now and take the packet.
Sources
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts