Can Vaping Products Harm My Pet? ASPCA Poison Control Experts Explain!

Vaping products such as e-cigarettes, vape pens, disposable vapes, mods, pod-mods and other electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) have become increasingly popular over the years. While these products pose significant health concerns to humans, they also come with risks to pets who may have accidental exposure. These ENDS are a double whammy for pets as the danger not only comes from the devices themselves, but also from the wide range of substances they may contain.

Physical hazards are an immediate concern with vaping products. Vape devices often include batteries, plastic, metal and glass components. Pets may chew or swallow these items, leading to gastrointestinal blockages, burns and irritation within the mouth and gastrointestinal tract, as well as sharp injuries from shards of glass or plastic.

Many vape products contain liquid nicotine, which is rapidly absorbed through oral tissues more readily than traditional cigarettes or tobacco products. Symptoms of nicotine exposure in pets can appear within minutes and may include vomiting, drooling, agitation, tremors, uncoordinated walking (ataxia), rapid heart rate and changes in breathing.

Other vape products may contain cannabis-derived ingredients, including THC or CBD. Pets exposed to these substances may show lethargy, incoordination, urinary incontinence, heightened sensitivity to sound or touch, tremors and changes in heart rate, blood pressure or body temperature.

Other potential ingredients, such as hallucinogenic mushroom derivatives, kratom or caffeine and other stimulants can cause a wide range of effects, from sedation and disorientation to agitation, hyperactivity, tremors, seizures and abnormal heart rhythm.

Flavorings used in some vape products can also contribute to additional exposure risks. Sweet scents and tastes make vape products especially appealing to pets and may contain xylitol, a sweetener that is common in other nicotine products (gums, pouches, etc.) that can cause vomiting, low blood sugar and liver failure in dogs.

In addition, vape liquids contain ingredients such as glycols, glycerin, byproducts formed during heating and small amounts of heavy metals from the physical device, all of which may contribute to gastrointestinal upset and other toxic effects if pets chew or ingest vape products.

How to Prevent Accidental Exposure

• Store all vape devices, cartridges, liquids and batteries in closed cabinets or containers out of reach.
• Avoid leaving vape products on counters, tables and nightstands, and keep pets away when handling and charging devices.
• Dispose of used or empty products in sealed, pet-proof trash containers.
• Refill or handle liquid products away from pets and clean spills immediately.
• Ensure visitors and household members understand risks and store their products safely.

What to Do If Exposure Occurs

If you believe your pet has chewed, swallowed or been exposure to a vape product of any kind, or if you notice any symptoms of illness, seek veterinary care or contact ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.