Why is it risky?
Two distinct hazards. Alkaline batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 9V) contain potassium hydroxide, a strong alkali that causes severe chemical burns to oral tissue and the GI tract when punctured or chewed. Button cell (disc) batteries pose an additional electrical hazard: a lithium button cell lodged in the esophagus generates a current that causes tissue necrosis within 2 hours and can perforate the esophagus within 6 hours. Both types also present physical obstruction risk.
Affected Systems
Digestive · Skin
Symptoms
Alkaline battery chewed: drooling, oral pain, vomiting, difficulty swallowing. Button cell in esophagus: may be initially subtle, progressive respiratory distress, inability to swallow, lethargy.
What To Do
Emergency vet, do not wait for symptoms, especially for button cells. X-ray locates the battery. Do NOT induce vomiting.
Notes
Button cell batteries are found in: remote controls, key fobs, watches, hearing aids, musical greeting cards, calculators, small LED lights, pet ID tags, children's toys. Keep all batteries in original packaging or closed containers. Dispose of used batteries immediately in closed recycling containers. Battery compartments should have screw-secured covers.
Sources
→ ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center — aspca.org
→ VCA Animal Hospitals — vcahospitals.com
→ American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care — acvecc.org