If your cat accidentally swallows a penny, you should call your vet and explain the situation and ask for advice. Your cat may need treatment to see if the penny was digested OK and not stuck. Your cat may also need treatment if she shows signs of vomiting and diarrhea, blood in urine, yellow mucous, liver and kidney failure and anemia. Why would these signs show? The penny, if made before 1982, is primarily copper which is non-toxic. However, pennies made after 1982 are only coated with copper and primarily made of zinc. Zinc is extremely toxic to both dogs and cats and could cause the side effects mentioned above. This could be extremely dangerous for your cat’s health. If your cat has any of these symptoms, notify your Marietta, GA vet immediately. You may also want to call pet poison control for information and advice as well. Learn more here.
