If ingested by dogs, mild gastrointestinal (GI) signs (an upset stomach) are possible. Hepper is reader-supported. APCC is your best resource for any animal poison-related emergency24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The packet may be included in medication, electronics, or even those new shoes you just bought! Learn more about our affiliate and product review process. Because this product can treat both dog sinusitis and canine cystitis, a lot of companies use it as a way to treat these two problems. He may suffer from some vomiting, diarrhea and nausea, but thats about the worst of it. Moving forward, you can talk to your child about how the packets arent for eating. Theyll be the best guide on what youll need to do for your dog. You can also call the ASPCA Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 and they will be able to direct you further. Dog Ate Do Not Eat Packet (Silica Gel) - What to Do Next - My Pet Child Writer, Dr. Hillary Wolfe If your dog swallows it, it can block theintestines, especially in smaller dogs whosedigestive channels are narrower and therefore more prone to obstructions. If the packaging, or another dangerous food such as chocolate or raisins was ingested along with the silica packet, then a vet would likely induce vomiting, Dr. Martinez says. Those little silica gel packets found in so many product packages are called desiccants, and they are used to keep nearby items dry when in a sealed environment. What happens if I eat silica gel? You know those little packets of silica gel you get when you buy a brand new pair of sneakers, an appliance, or some medicine? However, with the national press stories being written about this product, perhaps this may change soon. If you dog gets into a package that they shouldnt have access to, theyre not going to know the difference between food and a poison, especially if they smell the same. Dr. Elaine Martinez, medical director for VCAs new Santa Monica Main Street Hospital, says that while the silica itself is not a serious issue, the packet can cause an intestinal blockage, which can be very dangerous. My Dog Ate Desiccant What Should I Do? | Our Fit Pets Some signs that they need medical attention could include: Sometimes, inducing vomiting is the right thing to do if your dog has eaten something toxic. Did your dog accidentally get his paws on a do not eat packet? Silica gel, desiccant and oxygen absorber packetscan be found in shoe boxes and handbags as well as things made of leather to keep them dry while they are packaged. Call your vet if you have concerns about your pets digestive or oral health. However, there are a few companies that do not understand the differences between silica gel and other medications for treating canine sinusitis and cystitis. Sometimes, adults may mistake silica gel packets for salt or sugar packets. If your beloved pet samples some silica, your best course of action is to keep an eye on her. A: Silica is a hard porous gel that is made synthetically and utilized because of its high affinity for water. Unfortunately, it's toxic to pets and can very well harm your dog. The Dangers Of Do Not Eat Packets To Dogs - Ask Pet Guru No need to worry about your furry family member. Hepper.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. Most often, itll pass through your body and exit without any harmful effects to you. If youre concerned about the symptoms, its not a bad idea to contact your veterinarian just to get a professionals opinion on what to do. If they are successful in preventing the stomach acid from eating their kidney stone, they will most likely be able to continue with their food. In this case, the sandy substance is mixed right in with the salt, garlic powder, or other ingredients in the spice blend. Silica gel beads have no odor or taste, and they're not toxic. With over a decade of experience as a professional pet blogger, Kevin has gained a wealth of knowledge and insights into the world of pet care. You may see it inside packages of food, medicine, clothing, and several other items., If you want to get more scientific about it, silica gel is a form of silicon dioxide that is both hard and porous. Contributor. But, as I said, the manufacturer of this product seems to be taking it all over the World Wide Web. If your dog eats silica gel, they may experience one or more of the following symptoms: Ingesting silica gel is serious, but not necessarily life-threatening. Dog Dad What Should You Do if Your Cat Ate Silica Gel? - Animal Nerdz Petspruce is a credible resource for all pets, learn how to love your pets more and keep them healthy. If your dog eats a silica gel pack, it is unlikely to cause any serious problems. Aggravated, dry mucous membranes and nasal cavity. It is advisable to research and understand what is or isnt safe for our dogs and ensure that inedible and dangerous products are put out of reach of our beloved family pet. Dog Ate Silica Packet? Should You Be Worried? - Pet Spruce Eating silica gel shouldnt make you sick. Try not to get mad at your dog if they gain access to forbidden items as this, unfortunately, can further encourage this behavior. Another thing dogs may get into from time to time isactivated charcoal or carbon. All rights reserved. There are no health issues associated with using this gel and it will be very helpful in improving the overall health of your dog. If you suspect your dog has eaten a silica gel packet, you need to call your veterinarian immediately. You can also contact your pets veterinarian if you suspect they ate one or more silica gel packets. Don't Panic! Five Items Pet Parents Shouldn't Worry About If your dog has runny stool, gas or bloating, silica gel ingestion could be the culprit. In most cases, poison control experts simply tell the parents not to worry. The gel doesnt have any nutritious value and has the potential to cause intestinal obstruction if eaten in large quantities. While its not fun to worry about accidentally ingesting silica gel, know that it does happen and by all indications, you, your child, or pet will be OK. Last medically reviewed on February 13, 2020, Silicon dioxide (SiO2), also known as silica, is a natural compound made of two of the earths most abundant materials: silicon (Si) and oxygen (O2), Choking occurs when an object, a piece of food, or a liquid blocks a persons throat. What is truly interesting is that the science behind this product seems to be more related to cosmetic products than to feeding a healthier diet to our pets. Look out for signs like throwing up, having an upset tummy, belly discomfort, or changes in behavior. If your dog is choking on the packet or can't breathe, do your best to dislodge the packet from the dog's throat. And making the call can give you peace of mind. What to do if dog eats silica gel packet - PPWikis That said, the content inside these packets may still cause harm for your pet so its important that you call the vet as soon as possible. The medication they use helps prevent the stomach acid from breaking down the stone that has been ingested. You may be wondering if the packet itself can lead to complications if your dog swallows it whole. If your dog ate silica gel, there's no need to fret just yet. if your dog is regularly chewing or eating inedible items. This may include inducing vomiting, x-rays, or hospitalization for observation and treatment. However, elemental iron is highly toxic to dogs. The Second Stage Having been a dog dad for 5 years, I know how hard it is to make sure your dog gets the right nutrients and stays away from hazardous foods. Some canines also develop metabolic acidosis, which makes the body more acidic. If your dog ate silica gel in large quantities, this could also be an issue, as they could cause dehydration or a blockage in the gastrointestinal tract. Silica gel is not toxic to dogs, and most dogs will pass the contents of a packet without any further symptoms. She says to call your veterinarian for advice, but you generally dont need to rush into an emergency veterinarian right away. If you or your child accidentally ingests silica gel, try to help the gel go into the stomach by drinking water. Petspruce is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. It is commonly used by veterinarians all over the world to treat a variety of dog health problems and this is one of the reasons why it is considered an effective treatment. However, silica gel could cause problems if eaten in The best part of the whole thing is that these stickers and bumper stickers are listed on the manufacturers website so that you can purchase them for yourself. While silica gel is usually nontoxic if ingested, some people have choked on it. What the beads were packaged with could be cause for concern, though. https://petspruce.com Here's what you can try and when to seek, Bay leaves are commonly removed after cooking, and you may wonder whether it's because they're toxic when eaten. Most Canadian dog food suppliers and companies do not recommend that their dogs eat a silica packet. Pry their jaws open and use your fingers or a spoon handle to free the packet. Packets Are Toxic To Dogs | Pet Poison Helpline The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. What Happens if a Dog Eats Silica Gel? | Cuteness Your dog will probably chew on it first, breaking it apart before it can be swallowed whole. Trying on your own to get your pup to vomit is not recommended. This is the reason isnt included in many types of product packagingit protects these products from excess humidity. But these symptoms could occur, and you need to take your dog to a vet if the problem persists. Can oxygen absorber kill dogs? These small pods contain carbon, sodium chloride, and iron powder. If your child has eaten a silica gel packet and vomits several times or cant keep anything down, seek emergency medical attention. Keep reading to find out everything that you need to know. Thats why manufacturers often label them with Do not eat or Throw away after using.. While your dog may not require any treatment, its never a bad idea to consult someone with some expertise in this area. If a pet gets into and ingests a silica gel packet, an oxygen absorber or a desiccant, mild stomach upset is all that is typically seen, says Dr. Wismer. Higher doses can result in GI upset, hyperactivity, high blood pressure, lethargy, fast heart rate, and an increased breathing rate. This article reviews whether bay, Like Ryan Goslings Ken in the Barbie movie, health experts say finding your kenergy can help you live a happier, healthier life. Silica gel is not toxic, but is still not meant to be eaten, and can cause problems.. Check what youre pouring out before feeding it directly to your dog. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. The severity will depend on how much of the do not eat packet content your dog consumed. We will look at whether silica gel is toxic to dogs, what to do if they ingest it, and how to prevent dogs from eating inedible items in the first place. You should contact your veterinarian with an update if your pets condition and symptoms are worsening, especially if you notice lethargy or that your dog cannot keep food or water down. Theres also the risk of aspiration or using the wrong substance to induce vomiting. Most dog owners do not even know that these medications exist. He may to have IV fluids to support him as recovers, too. Possible Complications While silica beads are inert and nontoxic, your pup may experience mild gastrointestinal upset after ingestion. If your dog suffers from a variety of canine health problems or you want to get rid of symptoms like skin irritation, ear inflammation, coughing, sneezing, poor eating and sleeping habits, or dog sinusitis, then silica gel may be the right option for you. The risk is higher if the iron concentration exceeds 5%. The warning that youll find on most silica gel packets, Do Not Eat, may cause you to panic if you walk into a room to find your favorite four-legged friend chowing down on a half-eaten silica gel packet. In order to determine what happens if a dog eats a silica packet, your vet will want to do a nephrolapectomy, which is where they remove a small amount of the kidney stone. mistake the packets for food. The same goes for anything else that could be harmful to your four-legged friend., Unfortunately, its not always possible to protect your dog from coming to any harm. Learn more. If your dog eats them, mild gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, such as an upset stomach, are possible. Veterinarian & Certified Food Therapist Do not wait as soon as you have noticed that your dog has eaten some silica beads. Will My Dog Be Okay After Eating Silica Gel? It could be described as a kind of man made sand., The gel is used commercially in the form of a number of small, white beads encased in a packet. The packet contains a variety of harmful chemicals that can be fatal if ingested. Most of the cases involved children under 6. By providing my mobile number, I agree to receive 2-4 text messages per month from the ASPCA, which may include requests for charitable donations. In this article, learn how silica gel can affect your pet and the measures you need to take. Activated charcoal is sometimes used to induce vomiting in dogs to empty their stomachs when theyve eaten something toxic. Silica gel packets can often be found in the following: Manufacturers started labeling silica gel packets with more alarming language some even have a skull and crossbones because the Poison Control Centers started to report more incidences of people swallowing the packets on accident. Most of the time, if a dog has consumed just one or two pieces of silica gel they'll usually pass it without any issues. Your email address will not be published. Ingestion of silica gel beads may result in the symptoms of an upset stomach, especially if a large amount is eaten relative to your dogs sizefor instance, if a small dog eats a large packet of silica gel. If a person ingests cobalt chloride-coated silica gel, itll likely cause nausea and vomiting. Will your dog get sick if he eats a silica packet? If you have a pet that has eaten a silica gel packet, take them to the veterinarian if theyre not passing stool as youd expect, they vomit up any food they eat, or if their abdomen appears swollen. But there are often ways to resolve the issue at home. Keep in mind that your dog is more likely to eat a gel packet that came with a food item. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You can also call the ASPCA Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 and they will be able to direct you further. We knew that he drank plenty of water, but he seemed to be drinking more water than normal. It can be, especially if it contains iron. What Happens If A Dog Eats Silica Gel Beads? Vet Explained Reasons & What to Do, Answered by Dr. Joanna Woodnutt, BVM BVS (Vet), Have a cat? The packet will probably have the scent of the food on it, so your dog will be especially drawn to it. An irritated, dry feeling in your throat. What About If My Dog Ate Silica Gel Packet? It may not have any impact at all. Youre probably very familiar with those small packets that come in medicines, foods, and even in new shoes. While silica gel may have some scary warnings on its label, the gel is nontoxic unless you eat a lot of it. Diarrhea and vomiting are a possibility, too. Whats so alarming about iron poisoning is that symptoms can show up anywhere from one to five days after consumption, so you may not know right away that anything is wrong. Connect with a verified veterinarian in minutes. If your dog atedesiccant like silica beads, the beads themselves arent as much of aproblem. Desiccants are commonly found in packaging materials to absorb moisture and keep the contents dry. Yes, silica gel can be toxic to dogs. DIY methods are usually much more of an ordeal for your dog than whats done by a professional. You'd have to eat an awful . They can cause minor digestive problems, but the symptoms usually go away on their own. Do not induce vomiting. Consuming the amount of silica typically found in a small (1-2-inch packet) probably wont do your canine much harm besides possibly causing minor digestive upset. What Can Happen If Your Dog Eats the Silica Gel Packet? Help, My Dog Ate Silica Gel! What Can I Do? - MyCuteAnimals If your dog has symptoms, contact your veterinarian to see if further treatment is advised. It is very easy for dogs to figure out odorous or aromatic items introduced into their surroundings because of their deepened sense of smell and the natural tendency to scout out for such things that stimulate their sense of smell (olfactory nerves). Nicole wants to share her kitty expertise with you so you and your cat. Dog Dad 2022 GoodPaw, All Rights ReservedGoodPaw conducts business as a licensed insurance broker in select states shown on licensing page. Use gentle force, especially on a small dog. My dog ate a silica packet - what do I do? - FeedingDogs.org Swallowing a packet whole is not a common occurrence. After the medication has been administered it is recommended that you gradually decrease the amount of food your dog is eating. If you are like me, you may have been watching the news and heard something about the possibility of dogs eating a silica packet. If you notice any symptoms, you can contact your vet to find out what your next steps, if any, should be. But of course, its better to handle these kinds of packages with care and keep them away from your pets. What Can Happen If Your Dog Eats Silica Gel? Your What happens if a dog eats a freshness packet? A - KeepingDog Because of its corrosive properties, this kind of iron can do considerable harm to the digestive tract. A few days after the treatment, they should be eating a regular diet without another stone. Keep reading to learn about the risks. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the packet. What Should I Do If My Dog Eats Silica Gel? Silica is able to absorb up to 30 percent of its weight. Your vet can give you further advice considering what kind of dog you have and their overall health. That said, this particular brand of meat certainly is an interesting bio-grade alternative to the usual dry commercial formulas that are sold in stores. If your dog manages to eat a silica gel packet, monitor the situation carefully and contact a vet or the Pet Poison Helpline (1-855-213-6680) right away. Why Dogs Eat Absorbent Meat Pad? Here are 6. If you cant reach your vet, you can call thePet Poison Helpline. You can also throw away any silica packets you come across so your pets and little ones are less likely to find them. Youll need to watch your dog for any of the following symptoms: This condition is life-threatening, so if you notice these symptoms in your dog, then call the vet immediately. pets. If your dog ingests an entire packet of silica gel, there is a possibility that it could become lodged in hisdigestive tract, causing a blockage. So, if your dog happens to eat a packet of silica, in most cases he should be OK. Monitor him for any concerning signs and call the vet with any questions you may have. In fact, sand is made of silicon dioxide, as are glass and quartz. Iron poisoning can lead to serious health problems, such ashepatoxicity(liver damage) and shock. Lethargy and diarrhea may also be seen. In the meantime, you should also make sure that all other food products containing the do not eat packet are out of your dogs reach. Silica gel packets. There are no health issues associated with using this gel and anyone that use this product must also consider the medical advice of their vet. Privacy Policy Legal Info, Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company, Howl to the Hill: Event Brings Advocates Together in Support of Goldies Act. The beads wont enlarge in your dogs stomach and the packaging they come in is usually made of paper, with little chance of injuring or obstructing your dogs digestive system., This does not, however, mean that its a good idea for your dog to eat a bunch of silica gel packets. Alternatively, they might want you to bring the dog in for an exam, x-rays, observation and/or treatment. If your dog has consumed a large amount of silica gel or is exhibiting any of the symptoms mentioned earlier, consult a vet or the Pet Poison Helpline (1-855-213-6680) as soon as possible. Despite the ominous Do Not Eat disclaimer youll usually find on a silica packet, silica gel itself is virtually non-toxic. GoodPaw Pet Services Inc., GoodPaw, offers free advice, product information and other editorial resources that are intended for informative purposes only, and should not be used in place of proper veterinary care. While the silica gels in the packet may not be toxic, it may still cause a host of health issues like irritation to the skin, respiratory tract, and gastrointestinal tract. Providing dogs with plenty of safe toys and chews may be all that is necessary to prevent boredom and scavenging. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinarian advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Its extremely effective in preventing mold and other bacteria, and so its used frequently. If you have a small dog or your pup has consumed a large amount of the stuff, consult your veterinarian. What Should I Do If My Dog Eats Chapstick? While the silica itself should cause no harm, the little packet may contain dye or substances absorbed from the item that contained it. Dogs may devour objects that dont count as food, like silica gel packets, out of pure curiosity., For this reason, your best bet is to prevent your dog from being able to come into contact with silica gel in the first place. The truth is that this type of medication is completely safe for animals. Kevin Myers is a passionate animal lover, pet enthusiast, and dedicated writer. This means it wont break down in the body and cause poisoning. Little packets of silica gel are placed within many different products, such as food, clothing, and electrical items, as they help absorb water vapor, thus preventing products from getting damp and becoming damaged or soiled. FluffyPlanet is not a medical resource. What Happens if You Eat a Silica Get Packet? | HowStuffWorks They are magnetic, which is how you can tell them apart from dyed silica and other types of oxygen absorbers. However, there are no known health issues associated with the use of this gel and it is completely safe for dogs. If your dog happens to ingest silica gel, he might experience a slight degree of stomach upset. If you think that your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately. Your dog will experience gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea and vomiting; it happens in the first 6 hours. Non-elemental iron will most likely turn to rust by the time your dog consumes it. Veterinarian If you suspect your dog has ingested silica gel, youll want to take the following steps: Dont try to make them vomit- this could make the situation worse. My Dog Ate a Silica Packet What Should I Do? If the packet is swallowed whole, it could cause an obstruction in the digestive tract. professional medical advice to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent illness or disease. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website! Summary What is Silica Gel? Smaller dogs or cats are most at risk of having an issue from ingesting it. Alternatively, your veterinarian may suggest monitoring at home is all that is necessary. Of course, our pets often ignore such things and might eat these packets anyway. For dogs, one of the biggest concerns is blockage. Silicon dioxide is also used as an anti-caking agent in many food seasoning jars. If the packet in question contains elemental iron, it will probably be in the form of brown or rust-colored pellets. Shes always had a cat in her home and has spent countless days with others, observing behaviors and softening up even the grouchiest of the lot. If the silica gel was packed with foods or items that could be poisonous to your dog, call the Pet Poison Hotline and alert your veterinarian. Because the products can smell like food or treats, animals may accidentally ingest the packets. They can help you determine if the silica gel could be coated in cobalt chloride or if you need to take any other steps. As we said before, silica packets are often packaged in items like vitamins and pet foods. GoodPaw assumes no responsibility for action taken based on information given from GoodPaw.com. This was after all, the first time he had eaten one of these packets in a long time. The danger lies with the cylinder. Are silica packets toxic for dogs? We avoid using tertiary references. However, because it wont break down, the gel or packet and gel can cause choking. My Dog Ate Silica Gel: Should I Be Worried? - Goodpaw Terms & Conditions / Privacy Policy, 2023American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding the medical condition of your pet. Dog Ate a Silica Packet [When Paws Meet Pouches] (https://youtu.be/53QBE7A1-gE), My dog ate Skittles! Silica gel is used as a drying agent to prevent moisture in whatever item it has been packaged with. Diarrheal conditions. Silica gel packets are used as a desiccant (drying agent) to prevent moisture damage, and are often labeled with the message Silica Gel Do Not Eat. If eaten, silica gel can cause gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrheadepending on the quantity consumed. Why Dogs Eat Desiccants Dogs are known to chew on almost anything, and desiccants are no exception. Silica gel will either appear as small, clear, round beads or as small, clear rocks. Refuses to lie down. What Treatment Will the Vet Provide? My dog ate silica gel - Should I be worried? - FluffyPlanet What Happens If My Dog Eats A Silica Packet? Thus, they tend to smell like the objects in which theyre stored. Here are a few reasons the packets come with stern warnings: Dehydration "" Silica gel's job is to absorb moisture, and it's going to keep doing that as you digest it. If, however, your dog consumes a large amountof silica, there may be more cause for concern. Ingestion of these little packets does not always constitute an emergency, particularly if the silica gel beads were contained in food items, like beef jerky or pizza, suggesting they are nontoxic. The packet the gel comes in could also cause intestinal obstruction, a possibility that is unlikely but not impossible, particularly if you have a smaller dog.. Get tips and exclusive deals. Packages of food items, like beef jerky or pizza crust; medicine; or even electronics may contain silica gel packets. Well, it is possible and it is an age-old question that has never been satisfactorily answered. 8101 Sandy Spring Road, Laurel, MD, 20707 Q: Why is it labeled "do not eat"? Fortunately, this is not a common problem. However, if your dog is regularly chewing or eating inedible items, we recommend having a check-up with your veterinarian to discuss the possibility of a medical or behavioral cause. However, in most cases, the gel itself is not a problem. It may be necessary to dispose of harmful products in sealed trash bins to protect from scavenging behavior or placing locks on cupboards and fridge freezers to protect from unwanted invaders. Of course, this type of meat may be in violation of the US Feeding Labeling and Education Act, which prohibits the use of any specified material in the development of a dogs diet. Silica gel packets are usually 1 x 2 inches and contain multiple small white, clear or opaque beads inside.
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