Acrylamide Exposure in Dogs and Cats

ASPCA Poison Control is warning veterinarians and pet owners about severe and unexpected signs that are being reported following acute exposures to certain headache wraps and cooling pet pads that contain hydrogel. 

Reported Symptoms

The signs include vomiting, tremors, ataxia, hyperesthesia and tachycardia. Seizures and death have been reported. Although these products contain non-toxic polymers such as polyacrylamide and polyacrylate, it is suspected that the signs are due to acrylamide, a byproduct of manufacturing. Acrylamide has been detected in similar products, such as water beads (Haugen), and is a potent neurotoxin. In 2018, a study was performed on sodium polyacrylate gel from a cooling dog bed after a dog developed neurologic signs following ingestion. Testing revealed a mystery chemical with spectra consistent with acrylamide (Dorman). 

Mechanisms of Toxicity and Precautions

Acrylamide is absorbed through dermal, inhalation and oral exposure, so nitrile gloves are recommended when handling the contents of these products or bathing pets. The exact mechanisms of acute toxicity are not fully elucidated, and there is no known antidote. In addition to symptomatic and supportive care, medications such as pyridoxine and N-acetylcysteine have been suggested in human cases.

Help and Information

At ASPCA Poison Control, our toxicologists continue to investigate these cases to determine the cause and the most effective treatments. Please contact us at (888) 426-4435 if you suspect that a patient has been exposed to the contents of one of these products.

Dorman, D.C., et al. "Toxicity associated with ingestion of a polyacrylic acid hydrogel dog pad." Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation, vol. 30, no. 5, 2018, pp. 708–714.

Haugen, A., et al. "Intestinal obstruction and neurotoxicity associated with water bead ingestion." Pediatrics, vol. 155, no. 2, 2025.