If the child swallowed more than one mouthful, is having symptoms, or if you are not positive of the exact substance or amount swallowed, call the Poison Center Hotline immediately at 800-222-1222. The call is free and confidential.
Feces, excrement, droppings
Minimally toxic
Eating a mouthful of feces, especially their own, is generally considered nontoxic. However, your child may start experiencing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or a low-grade fever. If your child experiences these symptoms, call IPC at 1-800-222-1222.
Usually no symptoms occur after a small ingestion of human or animal feces. Rarely nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or low-grade fever may occur hours to days after ingestion.
If your child is not having any symptoms, give them few sips of water and watch for nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. Be sure to wash their hands, especially under their fingernails to prevent further ingestion.If your child begins experiencing symptoms, call IPC at 1-800-222-1222.
The most common feces ingested by children include human (their own), cat, dog and bird.
Eating a mouthful of feces - especially their own - is generally considered nontoxic. However, your child may start experiencing symptoms similar to food poisoning. Rarely, animal feces can contain bacteria or viruses that lead to more serious illnesses.call IPC at 1-800-222-1222 for more information.
If your child has gotten this substance in his or her eyes, please view our eye exposure information.
Don't hesitate to call the Poison Helpline.