Is Pool chlorine Toxic to Pets?
Yes — pool chlorine is toxic to cats. Yes — pool chlorine is 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
- Calcium hypochlorite, trichloroisocyanuric acid
- Toxic parts
- Tablets, shock granules
- Also known as
- chlorine tablets, pool water
Symptoms
Cats (toxic)
- Drooling
- Pawing at the mouth
- Mouth or throat burns
- Vomiting
- Refusing food
- Trouble breathing
Dogs (toxic)
- Drooling
- Pawing at the mouth
- Mouth or throat burns
- Vomiting
- Refusing food
- Trouble breathing
What to do
If your cat ate pool chlorine
- 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 pool chlorine
- 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
Concentrated pool tablets and shock are corrosive. Swimming in properly treated pool water is generally fine, but tablets or granules can cause burns.
Is your pet covered for emergency vet bills?
Compare pet insurance quotes →
Frequently asked questions
Is pool chlorine toxic to cats?
Yes — pool chlorine is toxic to cats. Common signs include drooling, pawing at the mouth, mouth or throat burns.
Is pool chlorine toxic to dogs?
Yes — pool chlorine is toxic to dogs. Common signs include drooling, pawing at the mouth, mouth or throat burns.
Which parts of pool chlorine are toxic?
Tablets, shock granules.
What makes pool chlorine toxic?
Calcium hypochlorite, trichloroisocyanuric acid.
Related items
Free printable: 25 pet-safe houseplants + emergency numbers
We only use your email to send the list and occasional pet-safety tips. Unsubscribe anytime. Privacy policy