Dogs can get themselves into trouble quickly sometimes! All it takes is a quick run to the wastebasket in the kitchen or perhaps eating something off the sidewalk, such as already chewed gum. To us, this sounds pretty disgusting. But for a dog, it’s finding treasure, and he will try to eat it before you see him! But what happens if a dog eats already chewed gum?
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Has your dog eaten already chewed gum? Are you worried that the already chewed gum will make your dog sick? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when something like this happens.
We’ve gathered information about already chewed gum and whether it can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is Already Chewed Gum?
The term “already chewed gum” is pretty self-explanatory. It’s gum that’s been previously chewed. The gum may have been thrown in the trash or on the sidewalk. Yuck! But it happens. It’s not fun when you step in it outside and bring it into the house on the bottom of your shoe! But it could be dangerous for your dog.
Can already chewed gum make a dog sick?
Already Chewed Gum & Dogs
Unfortunately, already chewed gum could make a dog pretty sick. The main problem is that the gum may have contained xylitol.
Xylitol is a natural sugar that’s found in plants, such as veggies and fruits. It has a very sweet taste, and it’s used as a sugar substitute in many products, including gum.
One of the reasons this sweetener is so popular is that it doesn’t cause tooth decay. And it reduces the levels of decay-causing bacteria in saliva. For this reason, xylitol is often used in sugar-free gum, mints, and other products.
However, xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs. It’s possible that the gum your dog ate may have contained xylitol. But the level of xylitol will be lower in already been chewed gum than in fresh gum. So, your dog may not have had a large exposure to the xylitol. Still, there could be enough of the sweetener to make a dog sick.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Already Chewed Gum & Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has eaten already been chewed gum that contained xylitol:
- Vomiting
- Drowsiness
- Weakness
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Lack of coordination
- Low blood sugar
- Jaundice
- Collapse
- Seizure
- Liver failure
- GI hemorrhage
- Prolonged clotting time
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency.
Treatment of Already Been Chewed Gum Ingestion in Dogs
The vet may try to induce vomiting to remove the gum and xylitol from your dog’s system. They may also use IV therapy to correct your fur baby’s glucose, potassium, and phosphorous levels. And it’s possible the vet may also give your dog liver protectants with antioxidants such as vitamins C, E, and K1. Your fur baby may also need antibiotics.
Your canine companion may need to be hospitalized until he’s in stable condition.
The prognosis is best for dogs who receive prompt medical treatment after eating already chewed gum that makes them sick. In the future, it’s best to train your dog to avoid eating already been chewed gum. It may also be necessary to invest in a dog-proof waste basket if your fur baby likes to dig in the trash. 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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