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Toxic: keep away from dogs

DogSafe severity score
8/10

Lighter fluid is a hydrocarbon.

Call a vet or poison control now. Do not wait for symptoms.

ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661. A consultation fee may apply.

Source-backed guidance. Not individualized veterinary advice.(more)

Compiled from veterinary poison-control and medical references, including the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Pet Poison Helpline, and Merck Veterinary Manual.

Part of our guide to Dog Got Into Lighter Fluid: Exposure Guide, Symptoms & What to Do.

Check Lighter Fluid for your dog

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Why Lighter Fluid is dangerous

Lighter fluid is a hydrocarbon. The greatest danger is aspiration into the lungs during swallowing or vomiting, which can cause severe chemical pneumonia.

Signs to watch for

Coughing, gagging, vomiting, drooling, breathing difficulty, lethargy

Related items

Check the exact item or ingredient before assuming two similar exposures carry the same risk.

KeroseneLime-A-Way CleanerIndoor Insect FoggerLiquid PotpourriImidacloprid Lawn GranulesLye CrystalsGlyphosate ConcentrateMuriatic Acid CleanerGasolineNicotine

What to do next

Move the product away, keep your dog calm, and call immediately. Do not induce vomiting or give oils, milk, or food unless directed.

🚨Step-by-step: what to do in the first 10 minutes →
Animal poison control
ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Available 24/7. A consultation fee may apply.

A closer look at lighter fluid

Lighter fluid is a hydrocarbon. The greatest danger is aspiration into the lungs during swallowing or vomiting, which can cause severe chemical pneumonia. The details below use the specific facts for this exposure, rather than treating it like every other househol question.

1. Start with the exact exposure

For a closely related comparison, read Kerosene. Any swallowed liquid, coughing after exposure, or chewed refill container warrants urgent advice. Do not induce vomiting.

2. Use the facts to decide whether to monitor or call

Another helpful reference is Lime-A-Way Cleaner. Do not induce vomiting or give food, charcoal, or another product unless a veterinarian or poison specialist directs you. Call your veterinarian or an animal poison control center with the exact product or plant, amount, time, and your dog's weight.

3. If the details are uncertain

Follow the first 10 minutes guide. Move the product away, keep your dog calm, and call immediately. Do not induce vomiting or give oils, milk, or food unless directed.

FAQ

How much Lighter Fluid is dangerous?

Any swallowed liquid, coughing after exposure, or chewed refill container warrants urgent advice. Do not induce vomiting.

Can I treat this at home?

Do not induce vomiting or give food, charcoal, or another product unless a veterinarian or poison specialist directs you.

When should I call the vet?

Call your veterinarian or an animal poison control center with the exact product or plant, amount, time, and your dog's weight.

Sources
  • Merck Veterinary Manual — Household Hazards
Read DogSafe's sources and review policy →
Compiled from veterinary poison-control and medical reference sources, including the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, the Pet Poison Helpline, and the Merck Veterinary Manual. This is general educational information, not a diagnosis or a substitute for examination by your veterinarian. DogSafe's severity ratings are our own assessment, calculated from published guidance and your dog's weight. In an emergency, call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661.