The Effects of Moth Balls on Rodents

Moth balls contain naphthalene, which is harmful when ingested, inhaled or skin contact is made. The side effects of moth ball exposure include anemia, decreased liver function and brain damage. When humans and rodents are acutely exposed to moth balls, they have developed cataracts. Cancer in rodents and humans has also been linked to moth ball exposure. The use of moth balls as a pesticide is illegal in all 50 states.

  1. Misuse

    • Moth balls are misused frequently. When moth balls are placed throughout a U.S. home to control rodent problems, this use is illegal. Attics, behind walls, crawl areas and basements are all areas where the scent of moth balls can get trapped and cause health issues for people living in the house. Moth balls are not registered as a pesticide, making their use to rid your home of mice, rats, squirrels, moles and other rodents an illegal misuse of the chemical. Manufacturers of moth balls do not make the claim that the product is good for any other use than to control moths in clothing.

    Exposure

    • If you have been exposed to moth balls because you were illegally using them to rid your home of rodents you may develop certain symptoms. It may become difficult for you to breathe. You may suffer an asthma attack; this is especially true for children exposed to moth balls in a home. Trying to use moth balls to rid your home of rodents can cause irritation of the eyes, nose and lungs. People may develop severe headaches, dizziness and nausea. Moth balls are a carcinogen that can cause cancer, severe skin rashes, jaundice and anemia.

    Harmfulness

    • Naphthalene is a toxic chemical in moth balls. It does not break down or metabolize easily. If ingested it can kill humans and rodents alike; ingested moth balls will cause vomiting, diarrhea and bloody urine. Para dichlorobenzene is also found in moth balls. Also a toxic chemical para dichlorobenzene causes vomiting, weight loss, nausea and even death. The toxicity of moth balls has been tested on laboratory rats. All of the health warnings of moth ball exposure for humans also are for animals and rodents. Do moth balls get rid of rodents? Yes, but the cost to humans is extreme.

    Natural Remedies

    • Better ways to rid your home of rodents is to use peppermint oil and steel wool. Strategically placed cotton balls with peppermint oil is effective in keeping rodents at bay. You can also fill holes with steel wool. Steel wool is difficult for rodents to chew through which makes it ideal for keeping rodents outside. Kitty litter also works to keep rodents outside. Put used kitty litter by the entrances of your home so rodents can smell the presence of cats. The presence of a cat is a natural deterrent.