Is Expanding Polyurethane Glue (Gorilla Glue) Safe for Cats?
Why it’s a problem
The same moisture-triggered foaming applies in a cat, and a cat’s stomach gives the mass far less room before it obstructs. Cats meet the glue by treading through a puddle during home repairs and then grooming their paws, so the swallowed amount may be smaller than a dog’s but is still serious. Any confirmed ingestion is a surgical emergency, not a wait-and-see case.
How to keep your pet safe
Confine the cat to another room during any repair that uses expanding foam, and wipe up every droplet before reopening the door. Store cans sealed and out of paw reach.
Warning signs to watch for
Retching or vomiting, swollen or tense abdomen, refusal of food, drooling, hiding, lethargy, crying when picked up.
When to call the vet
Go to a veterinarian immediately and name the product so they can plan imaging and surgery if needed. Do not induce vomiting and do not offer food or water, because adding moisture keeps the reaction going.
Common questions
My cat licked its paws after stepping in expanding foam, is it really an emergency?
Yes. Even a groomed-off amount can foam inside the stomach, so call a vet or pet poison hotline right away rather than waiting for vomiting or a bloated belly.
What if my cat only got a tiny bit of dried foam on its paw?
Fully cured foam is much less reactive than wet glue, but do not peel it off yourself, because that tears skin and fur. A vet can remove it safely and check for swallowed bits.
More household hazards for cats
This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate or touched something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. In the US: Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661, ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 (fees may apply).