Connect with a verified veterinarian in minutes. Licensed vets are available 24/7 to answer your questions. No need to worry about your furry family member.
It’s not uncommon for pet parents to keep beautiful rocks and crystals in their homes. One favorite is amethyst. Sometimes a dog may try to play with the amethyst and accidentally eat it! But what happens if a dog eats amethyst?
Has your dog eaten amethyst? Are you worried the amethyst 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 amethyst and whether it can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is Amethyst?
Amethyst is a stone that is a deep purple color; in fact, amethyst is a type of quartz. In ancient times, the stone was thought to protect its owner from drunkenness. Today, amethyst is a semiprecious stone that’s popular to use in jewelry. It’s also the traditional birthstone for people born in February. This stone can be found in many areas around the world and comes in different tones of purple.
Amethyst is also used as a stone for healing. It’s thought that amethyst can provide the following benefits:
- Boost the immune system
- Improve endocrine function
- Improve skin’s appearance
- Promotes digestive health
- Reduces headaches
- Regulates hormones
These claims have not been proven by science; however, practitioners of certain types of healing claim the stones actually work.
While amethysts are beautiful and may have medicinal properties, what happens if a dog eats amethyst?
Amethyst & Dogs
Unfortunately, amethyst stones can make a dog sick. We couldn’t find information saying that amethyst is toxic; however, any stone can cause intestinal obstruction in dogs.
If your fur baby is a large dog and the amethyst was small, there’s a chance the stone will come out in your dog’s poop.
On the other hand, if your fur baby is a small to medium dog, it’s possible the stone could become lodged in his digestive tract and cause intestinal blockage.
Review symptoms, medications & behavior to keep your pets healthy with a Vet Online in just minutes.
Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Amethyst Ingestion in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has eaten an amethyst:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Nausea
Note: Do not induce vomiting unless directed to do so by the vet.
In this case, the vet may recommend monitoring your dog for any concerning symptoms. The vet may believe the stone will pass on its own. The vet may also provide you with information on how to help the stone pass more quickly, so be sure to follow their directions closely and call the vet if your dog shows other symptoms.
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Weakness
- Lethargy
- Nausea
- Lack of appetite
- Abdominal pain & swelling
- Restlessness
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency.
Treatment of Amethyst Ingestion in Dogs
The vet may order x-rays to see where the amethyst has become lodged. With this information, the vet may need to perform surgery on your canine companion. The surgery is done to remove the stone safely and to repair any damage it may have caused.
The vet will also treat any other symptoms your dog may have. In addition, depending on your dog’s condition, he may need to be hospitalized until he’s in stable condition.
The prognosis is best for dogs who receive prompt medical treatment after eating an amethyst. In the future, it’s best to keep amethyst and all other crystals and stones out of your dog’s reach. You’ll both be happier for it!
Connect with a verified veterinarian in minutes. Licensed vets are available 24/7 to answer your questions. No need to worry about your furry family member.
Kyoko
Kyoko is from a family of 3 and moved to New York with her parents and siblings when she was 13. Kyoko is fond of spending a great amount of time with pets, specifically her beagle Luna and cat Missy. Her boyfriend often complains that she spends too much time giving attention to their animals. Kyoko has written dozens of articles concerning pets and is aiming at owning a pet shop one day!
Review symptoms, medications & behavior to keep your pets healthy with a Vet Online in just minutes.
Ask a Vet Live Now
