Dogs are funny in that they will eat almost everything and everything! This includes an aluminum tube! You may have thrown the tube into the trash; however, your ever-curious dog decides the tube looks like a great play toy. So, he digs in the wastebasket until he finds the aluminum tube. Then he has fun and eventually eats the tube! But what happens if a dog eats an aluminum tube?
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Has your dog eaten an aluminum tube? Are you worried the aluminum tube 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 aluminum tubes and whether they can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is an Aluminum Tube?
An aluminum tube is a small tube that can be made to hold a wide range of products. For instance, aluminum tubes may hold and store toothpaste, store-bought frosting, and much more.
Aluminum packaging that holds food and other ingestible products must be produced according to food industry standards and regulations.
While aluminum tubes are considered safe for humans (when used as directed), what about dogs? What happens if a dog eats an aluminum tube?
Aluminum Tubes & Dogs
Unfortunately, if a dog eats an aluminum tube, he can become seriously ill. It’s possible for the tube to become lodged anywhere in your dog’s digestive system. This can create a condition called intestinal blockage, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Aluminum Tube Ingestion in Dogs
If your dog has eaten an entire aluminum tube, you may notice these symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Weakness
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain & swelling
- Restlessness
If your dog shows any of these symptoms, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency.
Treatment of Aluminum Tube Ingestion in Dogs
The vet may take some x-rays to determine if your dog has eaten the entire tube and if the tube has created a blockage. If the vet finds intestinal blockage, they will have to perform surgery to safely remove the aluminum tube. They will also repair any damage the tub may have caused.
The prognosis is best for dogs who receive prompt medical treatment after eating an aluminum tube. In the future, it’s a good idea to keep the aluminum tubes out of your dog’s reach. It may also be necessary to invest in a dog-proof wastebasket, especially if your dog loves to dig in the trash. You’ll both be happier for it!
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Julie
Julie is a graduate of the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, where she studied Animal science. Though contrary to the opinion of her parents she was meant to study pharmacy, but she was in love with animals especially cats. Julie currently works in an animal research institute (NGO) in California and loves spending quality time with her little cat. She has the passion for making research about animals, how they survive, their way of life among others and publishes it. Julie is also happily married with two kids.
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