Are mothballs dangerous for cats and dogs?

Answer by  bspotarticle (24)

Mothballs are very dangerous to cats, dogs and other small pets. Mothballs can contain a pesticide called naphthalene, which if eaten can cause serious illness and even death in pets. If you think your pet may have ingested mothballs, seek immediate care. Also, think about using a natural alternative to moth prevention such as cedar chips.

Answer by  Kittala (61)

Mothballs are extremely dangerous to cats and dogs! It can mean death for pets. Napthalene, the toxin that makes up your average mothball, can be ingested or absorbed through the skin. They are created to kill the moths that eat wool clothing. It has been discovered that people, on occasion, throw mothballs into their garden to keep stray cats out.

Answer by  cln (28)

Mothballs can be dangerous for cats and dogs. The fumes can result in respiratory irritation. Ingestion of the mothballs by a pet can result in kidney and liver damage.

Answer by  mammakat (11147)

Mothballs will keep a cat off your garden, etc, but even the fumes can be toxic- fortunately cats will back off from them. However, they can cause kidney failure or poisoning. Cats are often highly attracted to the scent of camphor, euclyptus, etc, and camphor used to be used in old school moth deterents, but mothballs are poisonous to pets.

Answer by  mammakat (11147)

This is a very deadly toxin that can cause death. While mothballs are often used to keep cats off gardens, etc, and most cats will not ingest it, some WILL, and poison can also be absorbed through the skin. Cedar is a much better alternative, and not poisonous.