TL;DR: Mothball ingestion is a life-threatening emergency for cats that requires immediate veterinary care. Identifying the active ingredients via packaging can significantly speed up diagnosis and life-saving treatment.
What is mothball poisoning and how does it affect cats?
Mothballs are concentrated chemical pesticides designed to repel moths and larvae. They typically contain one of two active ingredients: naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene. Both substances are highly toxic to felines. When a cat licks or ingests a mothball, the chemicals are rapidly absorbed, leading to severe issues such as red blood cell destruction, liver damage, and central nervous system distress.
Is it an emergency if my cat ate or licked a mothball?
- Urgency Level: High. If you suspect your cat has ingested even a portion of a mothball, consider this a life-threatening emergency.
- Do not wait for symptoms to appear, as internal damage can occur quickly.
- Immediate veterinary intervention is necessary to stabilize your pet and begin decontamination or supportive care.
Why should I take a photo of the mothball packaging for my vet?
- If it is safe to do so, take a clear photo of the mothball packaging or the ingredient label.
- Knowing whether the product contains naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene is vital for the veterinary team.
- Different chemicals require different treatment protocols, and having this information ready can save precious time during triage and diagnosis.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
In cases of mothball ingestion in cats, emesis can be induced with xylazine within 4 hours of ingestion. If emesis is unsuccessful or more than 4 hours have passed since ingestion, administer activated charcoal at 2-3 g/kg. Gastric lavage with tepid water may be considered if emesis cannot be induced, ensuring the animal is anesthetized and intubated first if seizures are present. A cathartic such as magnesium sulfate at 250 mg/kg PO or sorbitol at 1-3 ml/kg PO can be used with activated charcoal. Monitor for and address potential complications such as seizures, liver and kidney damage, and respiratory failure with appropriate supportive care.
Chapter: Toxicology, Emergency, Neurology
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 3171)