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US pennies minted after which year contain zinc, a metal that can harm a cat that swallows one?

Pennies made after 1982 contain zinc.

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  1. 1962
  2. 1982 ✔
  3. 2002

Why: Cornell lists zinc among metals that threaten cats if swallowed or inhaled, and notes zinc is present in pennies minted after 1982. Keep loose change away from curious cats.

Huh, didn't know that: Cornell says lead, zinc and mercury can be a severe threat if ingested or inhaled.

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References

Answer: 1982. Cornell lists zinc among metals that threaten cats if swallowed or inhaled, and notes zinc is present in pennies minted after 1982. Keep loose change away from curious cats.

  1. Cornell Feline Health Center, Poisons www.vet.cornell.edu/node/4041
    Zinc is present in pennies minted after 1982
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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