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Dogs will eat the strangest and grossest things sometimes! What posses them to eat such strange things, like a pad? Each dog is a unique individual, and it’s not always easy to determine why he ate something like that. But what happens if a dog eats a pad? Will the pad make your dog sick?
Has your dog eaten a pad? Are you worried the pad will make your dog sick? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your dog eats something like this.
We’ve gathered information about pads and whether they can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is a Pad?
A pad is used for menstrual periods and is used by women. The pad is worn in the underwear and is made of absorbent materials that soak up blood and other fluids. In addition, menstrual pads usually have adhesive on the underside to hold the pad in place.
Pads are made from a wide range of materials that are absorbent. Once used, the pads are thrown in the garbage for disposal. The pads discussed in this article are not meant to be reused.
What happens if a dog eats a pad? Can it make the dog sick?
Pads & Dogs
When it comes to a dog eating a pad, the main concern is that it will absorb fluid in the stomach or intestines, where it expands. It is also possible for a dog to eat a pad, with the pad making its way safely through the dog’s digestive tract, coming out in the dog’s poop!
But it’s not possible to determine whether or not a dog will safely pass the pad. And it can take up to 48 hours for the pad to pass through the digestive system.
It’s also possible the pad will become lodged in the digestive tract, where it can cause an obstruction. This is a life-threatening condition that requires treatment as soon as possible.
Never try to make a dog vomit a pad. This could cause the pad to become lodged in the dog’s esophagus and become a choking hazard.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Pad Ingestion in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has eaten a pad:
- Vomiting
- Lack of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain & swelling
- Weakness
- Nausea
- Dehydration
If you notice these or other concerning symptoms in your dog, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency.
Treatment of Pad Ingestion in Dogs
Treatment will depend on the vet’s diagnosis. If they determine your canine companion has an intestinal blockage, they may need to perform surgery to remove the blockage safely.
Otherwise, the treatment varies depending on the diagnosis.
The good news is that most dogs will make a full recovery after eating a pad! But the key is to seek out prompt medical treatment for the dog.
In the future, you may want to consider investing in a dog-proof wastebasket. These are more challenging for a dog to get open. You and your fur baby will be happier for it!
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Tom
Tom has always loved to write since he was little - he wanted to be either a writer or a veterinary doctor, but he ended up being a professional writer while most of his works are based on animals. He was born in San Francisco but later moved to Texas to continue his job as a writer. He graduated from the University of San Francisco where he studied biotechnology. He is happily married and a soon to be father!Review symptoms, medications & behavior to keep your pets healthy with a Vet Online in just minutes.
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