Liquid fabric softener contains cationic detergents that cause severe chemical burns.
Even small ingestions can cause painful burns to the mouth and esophagus.
Cationic detergents (quaternary ammonium compounds) cause caustic injury by disrupting cell membranes. The damage is most pronounced where contact time is longest — the mouth, throat and upper esophagus. Strictures can develop weeks later.
Sources
Even a tongue-lick of concentrated softener can cause painful ulcers. Do not induce vomiting — re-exposure damages tissues again.
Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal poison hotline immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a vet.
callFind Emergency Vet