Is Mothballs Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Mothballs (naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene) are moderately toxic to cats and dogs; cats are more sensitive to naphthalene. Call a vet if eaten.
Can cause real harm — call a vet for guidance.
Can cause real harm — call a vet for guidance.
In an emergency, do not wait.
Medical disclaimer: This tool is for general information only and isnot a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Toxicity depends on the amount, your pet’s size, and health history. If your pet may have ingested something harmful, contact your veterinarian or a poison control hotline ((888) 426-4435 / (855) 764-7661) immediately — do not wait for symptoms to appear.
What is Mothballs?
Mothballs (naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene) are moderately toxic to cats and dogs; cats are more sensitive to naphthalene. Call a vet if eaten.
Also known as: naphthalene, paradichlorobenzene, PDB, moth crystals, moth flakes, camphor tablets.
Symptoms to Watch For
🐕 In Dogs
- Vomiting and a mothball odor on the breath
- Lethargy, weakness, and pale gums
- Brown or bluish gums (methemoglobinemia) in serious cases
- Possible liver and kidney damage with larger amounts
🐈 In Cats
- Vomiting and drooling
- Lethargy, weakness, and pale gums
- Destruction of red blood cells (Heinz body anemia) — cats are especially sensitive to naphthalene
- Brown gums, dark urine, or labored breathing in serious cases
What to Do If Ingested
- Call a veterinarian or poison hotline.
- Read the package to identify the active ingredient (naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene) and count how many were eaten.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a professional directs it.
- Watch for pale or brown gums, weakness, or vomiting.
Steps apply to both cats and dogs. When in doubt, call a vet or poison hotline before acting.
When to Call the Vet Immediately
Call your veterinarian or a poison control hotline right away if you notice any of these:
- Any mothballs were eaten
- Vomiting or a mothball smell on the breath
- Pale, brown, or bluish gums, or weakness
- Reduced appetite or lethargy over the next day
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are cats more sensitive to mothballs?
Cats are especially vulnerable to naphthalene because their red blood cells are more easily damaged by oxidative chemicals, causing Heinz body anemia — the cells rupture and the cat becomes weak and pale. Even one naphthalene mothball can be dangerous to a cat.
How can I tell which type of mothball my pet ate?
Read the package label — the active ingredient will be either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene (sometimes camphor). Naphthalene is the more toxic type, especially for cats. If you cannot find the label, tell the vet and bring any remaining product or packaging.
What are the warning signs of mothball poisoning?
Watch for vomiting, a mothball odor on the breath, lethargy, and pale or brownish gums. In serious cases you may see dark urine, labored breathing, or weakness from anemia. Symptoms can develop over hours to a couple of days, so call a vet even if your pet seems fine at first.
Sources
This entry is reviewed against the following authoritative veterinary sources.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-11