hazard record

Is Zinc (Pennies, Hardware) toxic to pets?

Zinc (Pennies, Hardware) is reported to be toxic to Dog, Cat, Parrot. It is categorized as a hazard hazard. This page is a neutral reference and does not diagnose or treat any animal.

Informational reference only — not veterinary advice, and not a diagnosis. If you suspect your pet ingested zinc (pennies, hardware), contact your veterinarian or an animal poison-control center immediately. Do not wait for signs to appear.

Also known as

zincpennies (post-1982 US)galvanized metalzinc nuts/bolts

Toxic principle

Zinc toxicosis (oxidative red-blood-cell damage)

Possible signs to watch

These are general signs reported in the literature, not a diagnostic checklist. Their absence does not mean an animal is unaffected.

vomitinglethargypale or yellow gumsreduced appetitediscolored urine

Severity

Severe

Notes

Swallowed zinc objects steadily release zinc in the stomach and usually need to be removed. If exposure is suspected, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison-control line immediately.

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