BHA and BHT

Caution

Verdict

Caution — synthetic fat preservatives. Not an ingestion emergency at pet-food levels.

Also called: bha, bht, butylated hydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxytoluene
Source: ASPCA · Verified 2026-08-13

Verdict

BHA and BHT are antioxidants used in tiny amounts so fats do not spoil. Internet lists often treat them as poisons. At the levels allowed in pet food they are not an acute toxin like bleach or ibuprofen. If you prefer mixed tocopherols (vitamin E) as the preservative, that is a shopping preference.

Symptoms to watch for

  • none typical from labeled pet-food use

What to do

No emergency. Switch foods later if you and your vet prefer another preservative system.