Why is nicotine so dangerous for pets?
Nicotine is a fast-acting stimulant toxin: it over-excites nerves, then blocks them, causing tremors, seizures and heart rhythm problems. Poisoning can begin within 15–60 minutes, so speed matters.
About the dose levels
Symptoms are possible above roughly 1 mg/kg; severe poisoning above 4–5 mg/kg. These bands are a guide — nicotine products vary a lot in concentration.
Symptoms are possible above roughly 1 mg/kg; severe poisoning above 4–5 mg/kg. These bands are a guide — nicotine products vary a lot in concentration.
Signs to watch for
- Excitement, drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea (first 15–60 min)
- Rapid heart rate, then slowed heart rate
- Tremors, twitching, seizures
- Wobbliness, collapse, shallow breathing
- Death in severe untreated cases
What to do right now
- Call your vet immediately — nicotine acts fast.
- Bring the product so the vet can read the nicotine strength on the label.
- Do not wait for symptoms; vomiting can be induced if the vet says it is safe and ingestion was recent.
- Watch the pet for at least 4 hours even if it looks fine at first.
If your pet shows any of the signs above, go to the nearest emergency vet now and call ahead.
For a dose worked out against your pet's weight, use the Nicotine Toxicity Calculator.