Are Pennies (zinc) Toxic to Pets?
Yes — pennies (zinc) are toxic to cats. Yes — pennies (zinc) are 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
- Zinc
- Toxic parts
- Coins, some hardware
- Also known as
- coins, zinc
Symptoms
Cats (toxic)
- Vomiting
- Pale gums
- Red or orange urine
- Weakness
- Jaundice
Dogs (toxic)
- Vomiting
- Pale gums
- Red or orange urine
- Weakness
- Jaundice
What to do
If your cat ate pennies (zinc)
- Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
- Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your cat ate.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
If your dog ate pennies (zinc)
- Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
- Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your dog ate.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
Good to know
US pennies made after 1982 are mostly zinc. Stomach acid releases zinc, which destroys red blood cells.
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Frequently asked questions
Are pennies (zinc) toxic to cats?
Yes — pennies (zinc) are toxic to cats. Common signs include vomiting, pale gums, red or orange urine.
Are pennies (zinc) toxic to dogs?
Yes — pennies (zinc) are toxic to dogs. Common signs include vomiting, pale gums, red or orange urine.
Which parts of pennies (zinc) are toxic?
Coins, some hardware.
What makes pennies (zinc) toxic?
Zinc.
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