Toxic to cats · Chemicals

Is Phosphides toxic to cats?

Extreme severity No safe amount — No amount is considered safe.

Yes. Even a small amount can be life-threatening — treat any exposure as an emergency and contact a vet immediately.

Symptoms to watch for

  • drooling
  • nausea
  • stomach bloating
  • vomiting
  • abdominal pain
  • shock
  • collapse
  • seizures
  • liver damage
  • lung damage
  • death
  • lung irritation

How vets treat it

Seek immediate veterinary attention; do not feed the pet. Administration of antacids like Maalox may decrease gas production. Inducing vomiting should only be done by professionals in well-ventilated areas due to human risk.

Why it's dangerous

Phosphides react with stomach acid to release deadly phosphine gas; the presence of food in the stomach increases gas production and toxicity.

Toxic compound: Phosphine gas

Good to know

Phosphine gas is toxic to humans; if the pet vomits in a car, ensure windows are open. There is no specific antidote for this poisoning.

Sources

This page is informational and is not veterinary advice. If your pet has been exposed to something risky, contact your vet or an animal poison control line right away.

More substances toxic to cats

Antifreeze Extreme severity Bromethalin Extreme severity Carbamates Extreme severity Cholecalciferol Extreme severity Everything toxic to cats →

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