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Dogs sometimes have a strong prey drive and love to chase bugs, such as cockroaches! They may chase the bug with no intention of eating it. However, if the dog catches the insect, he may be tempted to eat his prize! But what happens if a dog eats a poisoned cockroach?
Has your dog eaten a poisoned cockroach? Are you worried the cockroach 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 poisoned cockroaches and whether they can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is a Poisoned Cockroach?
A poisoned cockroach is an insect that has ingested poison. Otherwise, a cockroach is a bug that has been in existence in some form for over 320 million years! How amazing is that? Well, it may not be too amazing when you’re looking at a cockroach! Still, these bugs are pretty hard to kill off.
But what happens if a dog eats a cockroach that’s been poisoned? Could the cockroach make a dog sick?
Poisoned Cockroaches & Dogs
Thankfully the poison used in roach traps and bait usually isn’t toxic to dogs (or cats). The poisons are used in such small amounts that a dog would have to eat many traps and bait before he’d get sick.
The greater danger is if a dog eats the cockroach trap, which is usually made of hard plastic. The pieces of hard plastic may be sharp and cause tears or punctures anywhere in the digestive tract. In addition, these pieces may clump together and form an obstruction in the dog’s digestive system. This can be a life-threatening condition if not treated promptly.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Intestinal Obstruction in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has eaten a roach trap:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Lethargy
- Lack of appetite
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain & swelling
If you notice these symptoms in your dog, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency.
Treatment of Intestinal Obstruction in Dogs
The vet will run x-rays or other images to see where the obstruction is located. Once he’s found it, it will be necessary to perform surgery to remove the obstruction and repair any damage it may have caused.
The prognosis is best for dogs who receive prompt treatment after eating a roach trap. If your dog loves to eat roach traps and bait, it’s best to place these where he can’t reach them. It may also be necessary to keep your fur baby out of the rooms where traps have been placed. You’ll both 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!
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