🐾 PawSafe Check

Is Antifreeze Toxic to Cats?

Yes — antifreeze is toxic to cats.

Toxic

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.

Symptoms to watch for

Toxic parts

Car antifreeze, some snow globes

Toxic compound

Ethylene glycol

What to do now

  1. Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms.
  2. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
  3. Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your cat ate.
  4. Note roughly how much was eaten and when.

Good to know

Antifreeze tastes sweet and a small amount can cause kidney failure. Treatment must start within hours to be effective.

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Frequently asked questions

Is antifreeze toxic to cats?

Yes — antifreeze is toxic to cats. Antifreeze tastes sweet and a small amount can cause kidney failure. Treatment must start within hours to be effective.

What are the symptoms of antifreeze poisoning in cats?

Vomiting. Diarrhea. Drooling. Reduced appetite.

What should I do if my cat ate antifreeze?

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.

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