Guide to Household Products That Are Toxic to Cats
Household products can contain substances that have harmful effects on cats, even in very small amounts. Cats can be exposed by ingesting (eating) a product, inhaling its fumes, or absorbing it through their skin during grooming.
When a cat is exposed to a toxic household product, symptoms can range from minor irritation or vomiting to severe illness or even death. Some toxic substances have specific antidotes — medications designed to counteract their effects. For toxins without a specific antidote, treatment focuses on supportive care, such as medications and supplements to manage symptoms and prevent further absorption of the substance.
While poisoning in cats is less common than in dogs, since cats are often more selective about what they interact with, household product exposures still occur and can be serious.
Published October 2025 | Review date October 2028 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet
Common Household Products That Are Toxic to Cats
Household cleaners: even though cats tend to be picky eaters and don’t eat toxins as readily as dogs, they are curious creatures. In addition to eating them, cats may inhale them in the environment or by grooming contaminated fur: bleach, soaps, detergents, fabric softener, enzymatic cleaners, deodorisers, oven cleaners.
Essential oils: are not all-natural products. They are very harmful and potentially toxic to your cat. Even diluted oils can be dangerous and when placed on the skin, have a robust smell that can entice your cat to lick or sniff the area.
Anticoagulant rodenticides: are poisons used to kill mice, rats, and other rodents. These poisons cause the rodent to bleed profusely by keeping the blood from clotting. This toxin is made in a variety of preparations: hard blocks, soft bait (similar to a chew treat), pellets, powders, grains/meals, and even liquid formulations. Toxicity occurs if your cat ingests rat poison. Both your cat and its prey will have then been poisoned. Ingesting the poison directly or ingestion of a poisoned rodent is often life-threatening for cats, as it causes extensive internal bleeding. This potentially fatal bleeding usually occurs inside the body and can go unrecognised until it’s too late.
Ethylene glycol, antifreeze: during the winter, in colder areas, it is common to use a de-icing salt or ice melt on sidewalks and driveways. Toxicity often occurs when cats lick their feet after walking though the ice melt, and less often from licking the ground or climbing into the ice-melt container. If cats lick their feet and only ingest a small amount, signs that occur often go away without medical intervention. Larger amounts ingested can cause significant stomach upset, leading to serious dehydration. There are many alternatives to ice melt that are pet-friendly, and sand is another non-harmful alternative.
Further reading: Antifreeze Poisoning in Cats
Metal poisoning: heavy metals cause toxicity in cats including: arsenic, copper toxicity, iron toxicity, lead poisoning, zinc poisoning.
Certain heavy metals can be seen by your vet on an X-ray, which can aid in diagnosis and treatment.
Signs of Poisoning in Your Cat and What to Do
Signs that might show that your cat has been poisoned include:
Twitching and fitting
Breathing difficulties
Shock or collapse
Inflammation or swelling of the skin
Depression or coma
Changes in drinking, weeing and eating
What to do if you suspect poisoning
Signs of poisoning tend to appear suddenly, so it is important to be aware. Even if you only suspect that your cat has swallowed or touched something poisonous, you must act quickly. Contact your vet immediately. Don't wait for signs of illness as by then your cat may be too sick to survive.
If you can see the poison, take your cat away from it immediately. If possible, take a sample of the poison with you to your vet appointment to help the vet choose a course of treatment.
Your vet may ask you to bring your cat in immediately or may give advice over the phone. Forcing or encouraging your cat to vomit may not be helpful and you should not try to treat your cat’s symptoms yourself.
Household Products – Poisoning Prevention Tips
Store all cleaning products, medications, and other hazardous substances in locked cabinets.
Use childproof locks on cabinets and drawers that could contain toxic substances.
Ensure your rubbish cans have secure lids that cats can't open.
Store antifreeze safely and clean up any spills promptly, as it is highly toxic to cats. Or avoid using completely.
If your cat spends time outside, wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove any potential toxins.
Use cat-safe toys by ensuring your cat's toys are non-toxic and free of small parts that could be swallowed
Avoid harsh chemicals by limiting the use of strong, heavily scented detergents on your cat's bedding.
Regularly change water, ensuring your cat has access to clean, fresh water and change it regularly to prevent contamination.