Button Batteries and Pets: Hidden Dangers in Toys and What to Do in an Emergency
Terra is an energetic, curious dog who loved to explore anything new she could get her paws on. One day, that curiosity led her to chew on a light-up necklace.
While we never want our pets ingesting non-food items, this situation was especially concerning because the necklace contained button batteries, which can be extremely dangerous if swallowed by pets. Thankfully, Terra was okay but not all pets are as lucky.
As we head into spring and spend more time refreshing our homes, bringing out seasonal décor, or introducing new toys and gadgets, it’s easy to overlook small hazards like button batteries. For curious pets, these everyday items can quickly become dangerous.
What Are Button Batteries?
Button batteries are small, flat, round batteries found in many household items, including:
Remote controls
Watches and fitness trackers
Hearing aids
Key fobs
Musical greeting cards
Children’s toys and light-up decorations
Because of their small size and metallic smell, pets (and children) may mistake them for treats or toys.
Why Are Button Batteries Dangerous for Pets?
Button batteries are extremely dangerous if swallowed.
When they come into contact with saliva or moisture, they can create a chemical reaction that leads to:
Severe burns in the mouth, throat, or stomach
Tissue death (necrosis)
Perforation of the esophagus or stomach
Internal bleeding
Important: Damage can begin in as little as 15–30 minutes, even if the battery is not chewed.
Signs Your Pet May Have Swallowed a Battery
In some cases, ingestion isn’t immediately obvious. Watch for:
Drooling or pawing at the mouth
Difficulty swallowing
Vomiting (sometimes with blood)
Loss of appetite
Lethargy or discomfort
If you notice blue or unusual staining in your pet’s mouth or vomit, it may indicate exposure to newer coated batteries.
What To Do If Your Pet Swallows a Button Battery
This is a medical emergency. Do not wait.
Contact your veterinarian or nearest emergency clinic immediately
Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a veterinarian
Seek care as quickly as possible, early treatment can be lifesaving
How to Prevent Button Battery Injuries in Pets
While it’s difficult to avoid these batteries completely, simple precautions can significantly reduce risk:
Store new and used batteries in sealed containers out of reach
Secure battery compartments with screws or tape
Keep remotes, toys, and electronics away from pets
Dispose of used batteries promptly and safely
Be extra cautious during holidays when battery-powered items are common
These risks aren’t limited to one time of year, button batteries are found in everyday items, making awareness especially important as new toys and household items are introduced throughout the year.
Are “Safer” Button Batteries Really Safer?
Some newer button batteries include:
Blue dye coating – helps identify exposure quickly
Bitter taste deterrent – may reduce chewing
These features can help with early detection, but they do not make batteries safe.
Important: Even these “safer” batteries can still cause severe injury and require immediate veterinary care if swallowed.
Why Awareness Matters
Button batteries are easy to overlook, but they pose a serious and fast-acting risk to both pets and children.
Terra’s story had a positive outcome but many cases are not as fortunate.
As more toys and household items incorporate technology, awareness and prevention are critical to keeping pets safe.
Keep Your Pets Safe
By taking a few simple precautions and acting quickly in an emergency, you can help protect your pet from one of the most dangerous hidden hazards in your home.
At Sage Compassion for Animals, we’re committed to helping pets stay safe, healthy, and with the families who love them. Explore more pet safety resources on our Education & Outreach