Can dogs and cats eat Cigarettes, nicotine and vapes?
Nicotine is quickly absorbed and overstimulates the nervous system and heart. E-liquid refills are very concentrated.
Why
Nicotine
Signs to watch for
- vomiting
- drooling
- agitation
- racing heart
- tremors
- weakness
- seizures
Good to know
Signs can start within an hour. Nicotine gum may also contain xylitol. Cigarette butts and pouches on pavements are a common source on walks.
If you think your pet has been poisoned
If you suspect your dog or cat has eaten or touched something poisonous, contact your vet or the nearest emergency veterinary clinic immediately, even if your pet seems fine – some poisons take hours or days to show signs, and early treatment works best. Do not try to make your pet vomit unless a vet tells you to, as this can cause more harm. Take the packaging, label or a piece of the plant with you, and note what was eaten, roughly how much, and when.
Sources
Sources
- Pet Poison Helpline – E-cigarettes and pets do not mix
- ASPCA – People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets
- PDSA – Poisons and hazards for your pets
Checked against these sources in October 2026.