Electronic cigarettes are also known as e-cigs, vapes, tank systems, vape pens, or electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). They are battery-operated devices used to create and inhale an aerosol composed of nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals. The devices can look like traditional cigarettes (called cig-alikes), cigars, or pipes, or even everyday items like pens or USB memory sticks. Most are designed to be reusable with replaceable or refillable cartridges, though some are disposable.
The risk to humans from electronic cigarettes is much the same as with regular cigarettes – inhalation of nicotine plus carcinogens and toxic chemicals in the vapor. Toxic nanoparticles of metals, such as nickel, chromium, and cadmium, have also been found in the vapor and may come from the heating coils of the vaping device itself. However, the risk to animals from e-cigarettes often lies with ingesting the e-liquid, cartridge, or pen.
What is nicotine poisoning?
E-liquids containing nicotine are made by extracting the nicotine from tobacco and then mixing it together with a base (e.g., propylene glycol) plus some flavoring. Colorings and other chemicals (e.g., formaldehyde) may also be added. The e-liquids are then sold in pre-filled cartridges or in large bulk bottles that can be used to fill empty cartridges.
"If a companion animal ingests an e-liquid, signs of nicotine poisoning occur rapidly..."
If a companion animal ingests an e-liquid, signs of nicotine poisoning occur rapidly due to the quick absorption of liquids in the gastrointestinal tract. Signs can be seen within 15–30 minutes of ingestion of an e-liquid, versus 30–90 minutes after ingesting more traditional forms of tobacco. Signs of nicotine toxicity can include vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, agitation, rapid breathing, high or low heart rate, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, muscle weakness and wobbliness, high or low blood pressure, respiratory depression, and seizures. Coma, cyanosis (blue gums), and even death are possible with high-dose exposures.
Nicotine poisoning requires prompt treatment at a veterinary clinic. Home care is not advised, even with exposure to small doses. Treatment usually includes close monitoring and treatment of heart and neurologic abnormalities. Intravenous fluids, blood pressure and EKG monitoring, muscle relaxants, anticonvulsants, anti-nausea medications, and other drugs are often needed to treat an animal suffering from nicotine poisoning. Signs may resolve within several hours in minor exposures, or they may persist for over 24 hours, in severe cases.
Why are e-cigarettes so dangerous for pets?
Animals are exposed when they chew on pre-filled cartridges or bulk refill bottles containing an e-liquid, ingesting nicotine in the process. The nicotine content of e-liquids can vary from relatively low levels (akin to an ultra-light cigarette per milliliter) to extra-high levels (1.5 times a strong, unfiltered cigarette per milliliter). An animal can be exposed to substantial doses of nicotine when they ingest an e-liquid, especially if they chew a multipack of cartridges or a bulk refill bottle. Severe nicotine poisoning and even death can result.
In addition to the risk from the e-liquid, swallowing the e-cigarette casing or battery is dangerous, too. The casing and battery are not digestible and can cause gastrointestinal injury or blockage. The rechargeable battery can burn the esophagus if pets swallow it. There is no safe part of an e-cigarette.
Xylitol, a sugar alcohol sweetener, can also be found in the e-cigarette liquid. This ingredient may cause a drop in blood sugar and liver damage. Pay close attention to all ingredients to ensure your pet is treated appropriately.
How can I prevent e-cigarette related toxicity?
The answer here is simple: to prevent nicotine poisoning, keep e-cigarettes and refill containers away from pets. In fact, keep all nicotine-containing products out of reach, including traditional cigarettes, cigars, nicotine patches and even gum!
Suspected ingestion of an e-liquid is a real emergency! Because of the rapid onset and severity of illness, home care is generally not possible with nicotine exposure. If you believe your pet has ingested nicotine, call your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline, a 24/7 animal poison control center, at 1-800-213-6680 and proceed to the nearest veterinary clinic quickly.
Pet Poison Helpline, an animal poison control center based out of Minneapolis, MN, is available 24/7 for pet owners and veterinary professionals that require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. The staff provides treatment advice for poisoning cases of all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals, and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline’s per-incident fee includes follow-up consultations for the duration of the poison case. Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.
