Suspected acrylamide toxicosis associated with ingestion of consumer polyacrylamide-based hydrogel migraine caps, eye masks, and wraps in 45 dogs.

Abstract

Objective: To describe suspected acute acrylamide toxicosis in dogs following ingestion of consumer polyacrylamide-based hydrogel migraine caps, eye masks, and wraps, and to quantify acrylamide monomer concentrations in associated products.

Animals: Cases were identified from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Poison Control's AnTox database (January 1, 2024, through June 1, 2026). Dogs with single product exposures to hydrogel-containing migraine caps, eye masks, or wraps and strong evidence of exposure were included. Analysis focused on 45 dogs with high or medium likelihood of exposure-related effects.

Clinical presentation: Vomiting, tachycardia, seizures, ataxia, and tremors were the most prominent clinical signs across cases. Behavior changes were common and included anxiety, agitation, frantic behavior, restlessness, and aggression. In one dog, behavior consistent with hallucinations was described. Panting, hyperthermia, hyperesthesia, hypotension, and lethargy or depression were also reported.

Results: The most common clinicopathologic findings were hypokalemia, hyperglycemia, and hemoconcentration. Management was supportive and included anticonvulsants, muscle relaxants, IV fluids, and electrolyte supplementation. Among 21 dogs with known outcomes, 14 (67%) died or were euthanized. Analysis of polyacrylamide-based hydrogel samples revealed acrylamide monomer concentrations ranging from 12,900 to 51,800 ppm, substantially exceeding expected residual levels and indicating a clinically meaningful risk of acrylamide monomer exposure. Findings were consistent with acute acrylamide toxicosis.

Clinical relevance: Consumer polyacrylamide-based hydrogel products contain variable levels of residual neurotoxic acrylamide monomer and represent a potentially life-threatening source of toxicosis.