Recreational substances
Is nicotine toxic to cats and dogs?
Also sold as cigarettes, e-liquid, vape refills, nicotine gum and patches
Cats
Highly toxicDogs
Highly toxicNicotine acts fast: vomiting, drooling and a racing heart can start within 15 minutes. E-liquid and patches are the most dangerous. Treat any exposure as an emergency.
By Maya HartIf your pet got into it
- This is an emergency.
- Go to a vet now and bring the product.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting and drooling
- Agitation, then weakness
- Racing heart and fast breathing
- Tremors and seizures
How much is dangerous
A single cigarette or a few drops of strong e-liquid can seriously poison a small dog or cat. Nicotine gum may also contain xylitol.
Keeping it safe
- Keep e-liquid bottles and patches locked away
- Empty ashtrays and don’t leave butts outside
The details
Nicotine is absorbed quickly from the mouth and stomach. Used patches still contain a large dose. Vomiting often happens on its own early, but that does not mean the danger has passed.
Questions owners ask
Is nicotine toxic to cats?
Yes — highly toxic.
Is nicotine toxic to dogs?
Yes — highly toxic.
How much is dangerous?
A single cigarette or a few drops of strong e-liquid can seriously poison a small dog or cat. Nicotine gum may also contain xylitol.
What should I do if my pet got into it?
This is an emergency. Go to a vet now and bring the product.
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