Zinc Phosphide and Pets
Find out if Zinc Phosphide is toxic to dogs and cats.
Think your pet ate something toxic?
Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 or view emergency guide
Zinc phosphide is a highly toxic rodenticide used to control gophers, moles, and other burrowing pests. It is commonly sold as pellet or grain baits placed in underground burrows. When swallowed, zinc phosphide reacts with stomach acid to release phosphine gas, which is rapidly absorbed and can cause severe, life-threatening poisoning in dogs, cats, and wildlife.
Pets are most often exposed by digging up and eating bait pellets, consuming a poisoned rodent, or getting into stored product. Even small amounts can be lethal, and clinical signs may develop within minutes to a few hours. Because vomiting can release phosphine gas and expose both the pet and owner, do not induce vomiting at home unless a veterinarian or poison control professional tells you to.
Prevention is essential: avoid using zinc phosphide baits in areas pets can access, store all pesticides in locked cabinets, supervise pets outdoors in treated areas, and consider professional pest control or pet-safe exclusion methods. If you suspect any exposure, seek emergency veterinary care immediately and bring the product label.
Is Zinc Phosphide Toxic to Dogs?
Ingestion is life-threatening; phosphine gas released in the stomach causes rapid, severe systemic poisoning.
Is Zinc Phosphide Toxic to Cats?
Ingestion is life-threatening; phosphine gas released in the stomach causes rapid, severe systemic poisoning.
Active Ingredients
- zinc phosphide
Pest Targeted
- gophers, moles, voles, ground squirrels
Formulation
pellet bait, grain bait
Signal Word
danger
Application Area
lawns, golf courses, agricultural fields, underground burrows
EPA Registration Number
EPA Reg. No. varies by product
Symptoms to Watch For
- drooling
- vomiting
- abdominal pain
- lethargy
- weakness
- tremors
- seizures
- difficulty breathing
- collapse
- death
What If My Pet Was Exposed to Zinc Phosphide?
Call a veterinarian or pet poison control immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional. Keep the product packaging for identification and prevent further exposure.
Sources
Vet's Note
PetPilot provides general information for educational purposes. While we reference authoritative veterinary organizations, this page has not been individually reviewed by a veterinarian for your specific pet. Individual animals may react differently based on age, weight, breed, health conditions, and amount consumed. Always consult your veterinarian or a poison control center for personalized advice, especially if your pet is ill, injured, pregnant, nursing, or on medication.