Cleaning & home · cat safety
Are detergents and laundry pods toxic to cats?
Moderate
Keep them shut away: detergent pods burst when bitten, and most exposed pets get vomiting, coughing or breathing irritation; detergents can also burn skin and paws. See a vet if your cat bit one.
Why moderate: Pods burst when bitten; most exposed pets developed signs.
- Name
- Detergents and laundry podsalso Detergent powder, Dishwasher pods
- Hindi
- डिटर्जेंट · detergent
What's in it
Concentrated detergents.
Where it hides
- Laundry and dishwasher pods
- Open detergent tubs and buckets
Symptoms to watch for
- Vomiting
- Drooling
- Coughing, breathing irritation
- Skin or paw burns
What to do
See a vet if your cat bit a pod or licked detergent.
- Don't make your cat vomit at home unless a vet tells you to.
Where Indian cats meet it
Open detergent tubs by the washing machine and buckets of soapy water.
Sources
Facts last checked
General information for cat parents, not a diagnosis or a treatment plan. The facts come from ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline, International Cat Care, the Merck Veterinary Manual and the other sources listed on every page — and we say so when the evidence comes from dogs or people. If your cat may have eaten something harmful, call your vet.