Aflatoxin Moldy Food Poisoning in Dogs and Cats

Why aflatoxin is dangerous

Aflatoxin is a liver toxin produced by certain molds on stored food.

The toxin is invisible, and a pet may eat a handful of seemingly normal peanuts from a pantry shelf.

Even a tiny dose can cause acute liver failure.

Why speed matters

Delaying care significantly worsens outcomes. Some signs appear hours or days later, so "looks fine right now" is not a reason to wait.

Symptoms of aflatoxin-moldy-food poisoning

• Vomiting within 12-24 hours of eating the moldy food
• Lethargy and loss of appetite the next day
• Yellowing of the gums or whites of the eyes by the second day
• Abdominal pain with a tight belly
• Seizures or collapse in severe cases

What to do right now

1. Call your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately
2. Bring the food package or a sample if possible
3. Do not induce vomiting if the pet is already vomiting, to avoid further gut irritation
4. Keep the pet hydrated with fresh water
5. Seek emergency veterinary care for liver support and blood work

Sources & further reading

• ASPCA Animal Poison Control — pet poison database & dosage references
• Pet Poison Helpline — toxicology triage guidelines
• Merck Veterinary Manual — toxicology monographs
• Vets Now (UK) — emergency toxicosis guidance

Other poisonings with overlapping signs

• Lead paint chip ingestion in dogs and cats — shares signs: seizures or collapse in severe cases
• Onion & Garlic Toxicity Calculator — another common emergency
• Salt Poisoning in Dogs and Cats — another common emergency

Owners also ask

• My nursing cat licked a few flakes of lead paint off a windowsill — could it affect her kittens?
• Can dogs eat cooked onion — my dog ate some in food?

Frequently asked questions

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