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My cat got fabric softener on fur. Is it toxic if they lick it?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My 5 yr.old tabby, Toby, knocked over fabric softener spilled it and walked in it, got it on his back leg and tail, is it bad for him to lick it, I tried to wipe it off with a wet wash cloth, but it still smell, so I don't know if it's all off. Will it make him sick to lick?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 25th, 2017

Oh no, that was naughty of Toby to knock over the fabric softener and then walk in it. Yes, it can make him sick to lick it. Fabric softeners can contain cationic detergents, and ingesting it can be toxic. There is a possibility of severe side effects such as vomiting, oral ulcers, seizures, drops in blood pressure, collapse, or fluid in the lungs. I would bath him now in water water and Dawn dish soap to get all the fabric softener off of him. Make sure to bathe him thoroughly, and keep an eye on him. If you see any signs of toxicity, which include difficulty breathing, vomiting, excessively salivation, lethargy, collapse, seizures, or congestion, I would have him seen by a vet immediately.

3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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