Are Glow Sticks Poisonous to Cats?

Glow sticks can be entertaining, but if they get into the wrong hands--or paws--they can be dangerous.

  1. Dangers

    • Glow sticks are poisonous to cats as well as other animals and humans. The liquid inside the sticks should not be touched or ingested. It is thought to possibly cause cancer and contains toxic and corrosive material.

    Glow Stick Facts

    • The liquid inside glow sticks is made of hydrogen peroxide, phenol and a fluorescent dye. The main ingredient is dibutyl phthalate, according to the ASPCA's website.

    Symptoms

    • If you suspect your cat has bitten into a glow stick, it will not be hard to tell. The cat will be foaming at the mouth and showing signs of agitation, such as by thrashing around. The liquid can also cause vomiting.

    Medical Attention

    • Take your cat to the nearest veterinarian or call poison control if you are concerned about the cat's symptoms. Be aware, however, that it is unlikely that a cat would ingest enough to die. You can aid your cat in recovery by leaving water or a favorite snack where it can easily be reached. This will help the cat remove the bad taste from its mouth. You may also want to take your cat into a dark room to locate any liquid on its fur and use a wet washcloth to wash any remnants off.

    Play It Safe

    • Keep glow sticks and other tempting toys where cats, other pets and babies cannot reach them.