Is Laundry detergent Toxic to Pets?
Yes — laundry detergent is mildly toxic to cats. Yes — laundry detergent is 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
- Surfactants
- Toxic parts
- Liquid and powder
Symptoms
Cats (mildly toxic)
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Foaming at the mouth
Dogs (mildly toxic)
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Foaming at the mouth
What to do
If your cat ate laundry detergent
- 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 laundry detergent
- 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
Liquid or powder detergent usually causes mouth irritation and vomiting. Pods are more dangerous because they are concentrated.
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Frequently asked questions
Is laundry detergent toxic to cats?
Yes — laundry detergent is mildly toxic to cats. Common signs include drooling, vomiting, foaming at the mouth.
Is laundry detergent toxic to dogs?
Yes — laundry detergent is mildly toxic to dogs. Common signs include drooling, vomiting, foaming at the mouth.
Which parts of laundry detergent are toxic?
Liquid and powder.
What makes laundry detergent toxic?
Surfactants.