Garden and pest control
Is weed killer toxic to cats and dogs?
Also sold as herbicide, glyphosate (Roundup), diquat, paraquat, path weed killer
Cats
ToxicDogs
ToxicMost garden weed killers cause vomiting and drooling if pets lick wet product or drink from the bottle. Some products, such as paraquat (banned in many countries), are highly toxic. Keep pets off treated areas until dry.
By Maya HartIf your pet got into it
- Wash any product off your pet’s paws and fur with soap and water.
- Call your vet or a pet poison helpline now, even if your pet seems fine.
- Have the packet ready: the vet needs the name, strength and how much may be missing.
- Do not make your pet sick unless a vet tells you to.
Signs to watch for
- Drooling and vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Mouth irritation
- Lethargy
- Breathing problems (paraquat)
How much is dangerous
Licking dried, treated plants is usually low risk. Drinking concentrate or chewing the container is more serious.
Keeping it safe
- Follow the label: keep pets away until the area is dry
- Store bottles in a locked shed
- Rinse sprayers and don’t leave mixed product in watering cans
- Consider pulling weeds or pet-friendly methods
The details
Weed killers are formulated to affect plants, and most are of relatively low toxicity to mammals once dry. The common problems are pets walking through wet spray and licking their paws, and dogs chewing containers. Concentrates and older products are more dangerous.
Fertiliser, slug pellets and insecticides are often used in the same garden on the same day, so tell your vet about everything that was applied.
Questions owners ask
Is weed killer toxic to cats?
Yes — toxic.
Is weed killer toxic to dogs?
Yes — toxic.
How much is dangerous?
Licking dried, treated plants is usually low risk. Drinking concentrate or chewing the container is more serious.
What should I do if my pet got into it?
Wash any product off your pet’s paws and fur with soap and water. Call your vet or a pet poison helpline now, even if your pet seems fine. Have the packet ready: the vet needs the name, strength and how much may be missing. Do not make your pet sick unless a vet tells you to.
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