Super glue is a common household item that concerns pet owners due to its rapid bonding properties. Cats’ curious nature and grooming habits make exposure a frequent worry. This article clarifies the potential risks and appropriate responses if a cat encounters super glue.
Understanding Super Glue’s Nature
Super glue, primarily composed of cyanoacrylate, rapidly polymerizes in the presence of moisture. This chemical reaction occurs almost instantly upon contact with water, including moisture on skin, fur, or mucous membranes. The process forms strong polymer chains that create a bond.
Super glue is not systemically toxic, meaning it does not poison a cat’s internal organs. However, its rapid bonding action and exothermic reaction are primary concerns. The polymerization process releases heat, which can cause thermal burns, especially if the glue contacts materials like cotton or wool. This reaction with biological tissues leads to irritation and physical adhesion.
Recognizing Signs of Exposure
Cats exposed to super glue show signs depending on the contact area. On skin or fur, owners might observe matted fur, localized irritation, redness, or pain. Cats may lick or chew the affected area.
Paw exposure can cause limping, difficulty walking, or excessive licking of paw pads. If super glue enters a cat’s eyes, symptoms include squinting, redness, excessive tearing, pawing at the eyes, or an inability to open the eye. Oral exposure or ingestion can lead to drooling, difficulty eating, gum or tongue irritation, or vomiting. Inhaling strong fumes can also cause respiratory irritation.
Immediate Actions and Veterinary Care
If super glue is on a cat’s fur, gently trim the affected fur. For glue on the skin, apply vegetable oil, canola oil, olive oil, or butter. Massage it gently into the area without pulling, as this can tear the skin.
Veterinary attention is necessary for eye contact, ingestion, extensive skin exposure, or if the cat shows pain or distress. Veterinarians may sedate the cat for safe glue removal, especially from sensitive areas like eyes, using specialized techniques. Eye contact often requires saline irrigation to prevent corneal damage and secondary infections.
For ingested super glue, veterinarians might monitor the cat or provide supportive care, as small amounts usually cause mild oral irritation and pass without severe symptoms. However, expandable glues like Gorilla Glue require immediate medical attention if ingested, as they can expand in the stomach and cause life-threatening obstructions.
Preventing Future Incidents
Preventing accidental super glue exposure requires careful storage and usage. Store all super glue tubes and similar adhesives securely in cabinets or drawers out of a cat’s reach. Ensure containers are tightly sealed after each use to prevent spills.
Proper disposal of used tubes and applicators is also important, as residual glue poses a risk. Place them in a sealed bag before discarding in a lidded trash can. When using super glue, do so in a separate room, away from pets, with adequate ventilation. Immediately clean up spills and keep cats away from freshly glued objects until fully cured.