Do dogs eat moth balls?

Cats are more sensitive to the toxic effects of mothballs, but dogs are more likely to ingest mothballs. Naphthalene mothballs, or old-fashioned mothballs, are considered the most toxic type of mothball. Modern PDB mothballs are less toxic but still can cause illness, especially when ingested. read more

Mothballs are pesticides that slowly release a gas vapor to kill and repel moths (and their larvae) and other insects. Mothballs are also used to repel snakes, mice, and other animals, though this use is not recommended and can be harmful to pets, children, and the environment. read more

The prognosis will depend on how many moth balls the cat or dog was exposed to, the overall health status of the pet, and how quickly treatment is sought. *According to an article by Camille DeClementi VMD on owners unsure if their pet has ingested a naphthalene moth ball or paradichlorobenzene moth ball should dilute three heaping tablespoons of salt in tepid water until well dissolved. read more

When metabolized, ingestion of moth balls can lead to liver failure. Symptoms of poisoning by moth balls include vomiting and seizures. If your dog was outside, though, your dog may have been hit by a car, because bleeding from the nose is a common symptom after head trauma. read more