Are Birth control pills Toxic to Pets?
Yes — birth control pills are mildly toxic to cats. Yes — birth control pills are mildly toxic to dogs.
PawSafe Check is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Always contact your veterinarian or a poison control service if you think your pet has been exposed.
- Toxic compound
- Estrogen, progestin
- Toxic parts
- Pill packs
Symptoms
Cats (mildly toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Reduced appetite
Dogs (mildly toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Reduced appetite
What to do
If your cat ate birth control pills
- Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your cat is small, young or elderly.
If your dog ate birth control pills
- Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your dog is small, young or elderly.
Good to know
Most single accidental ingestions are low risk, though very large amounts can affect bone marrow and intact female pets are more sensitive.
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Frequently asked questions
Are birth control pills toxic to cats?
Yes — birth control pills are mildly toxic to cats. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite.
Are birth control pills toxic to dogs?
Yes — birth control pills are mildly toxic to dogs. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite.
Which parts of birth control pills are toxic?
Pill packs.
What makes birth control pills toxic?
Estrogen, progestin.
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