What happens if a dog eats Mothballs?

If a dog eats Mothballs, they may experience: Vomiting, increased drinking, lethargy, tremors, seizures, liver and kidney damage.

Not Safe

Not SafeSafety rating and summary vet reviewed by Dr Alex Crow BVetMed MRCVSchemical

Not Safe for Dogs

Key warning: all parts — naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene

Are Mothballs Toxic to Dogs? 🚨 Yes — Symptoms and Treatment

This food is NOT safe for dogs. Keep it away from your pet.

Mothballs are highly toxic to dogs. They contain either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene both of which cause serious organ damage.

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Warning Signs & Symptoms

Vomiting, increased drinking, lethargy, tremors, seizures, liver and kidney damage.

If Your Dog Ate This

Call vet or ASPCA Poison Control 888-426-4435 immediately. Do not induce vomiting.

What to Avoid

all parts — naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene

Preparation & Serving

Store in sealed containers in inaccessible locations. Old-style naphthalene mothballs are more toxic.

Safer Alternatives

Use cedar blocks or lavender sachets as safer alternatives

Did you know?

Mothballs are so toxic that even the fumes can cause neurological symptoms in dogs — not just ingestion.

Portions & nutrition

Toxic dose (per kg body weight): One mothball can cause toxicity in a small dog
Calories (per 100g): 0
Safe frequency: Never

Source

Source: ASPCA

What You Need to Know

Even the fumes from mothballs can cause symptoms. Dogs may chew on mothballs attracted by the smell. Old-style naphthalene mothballs are more toxic than newer paradichlorobenzene versions.

Mothballs Variations

Mothballs for DogsNot Safe

Not sure what to do next? Read our emergency guide What to Do If Your Dog Eats Something Toxic

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Frequently asked questions

Is Mothballs safe for dogs?: No, Mothballs is not safe for dogs. Mothballs are highly toxic to dogs. They contain either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene both of which cause serious organ damage.
What happens if a dog eats Mothballs?: If a dog eats Mothballs, they may experience: Vomiting, increased drinking, lethargy, tremors, seizures, liver and kidney damage.
How much Mothballs can a dog eat?: Even the fumes from mothballs can cause symptoms. Dogs may chew on mothballs attracted by the smell. Old-style naphthalene mothballs are more toxic than newer paradichlorobenzene versions.

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Veterinary review: Dr Alex Crow BVetMed MRCVS reviewed this food's safety rating, summary, symptoms, main details and any age or breed notes on 4 April 2026. Everything else on this page, including feeding amounts and portions, toxic-dose figures, toxicity level, emergency steps and preparation advice, was added later and was not part of that review.

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before making dietary changes for your pet.