Dogs regularly get into things they shouldn’t! They may want to play with something, taste a substance, or eat a chemical, such as ammonium nitrate. That dogs do this can be surprising to many pet parents. However, when you’ve been a pet parent for long enough, you realize this is a common issue—dogs eat things they shouldn’t! But what happens if a dog eats ammonium nitrate?
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Has your dog eaten ammonium nitrate? Are you worried that ammonium nitrate 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 ammonium nitrate and whether it can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is Ammonium Nitrate?
Ammonium nitrate is a hazardous substance that may also go by the name nitram. Ammonium nitrate is an odorless, colorless, white-to-gray crystalline flake, bead, or granule. It’s used to make explosives, matches, fertilizers, and antibiotics.
Ammonium nitrate can be dangerous when inhaled or if your skin comes into contact with it. Contact can result in burning eyes and skin while inhaling this substance can result in nose, throat, and lung irritation.
This substance can be used safely; however, what happens if a dog eats ammonium nitrate?
Ammonium Nitrate & Dogs
Unfortunately, ammonium nitrate is extremely toxic to dogs.
Symptoms of Ammonium Nitrate Ingestion in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has eaten ammonium nitrate:
- Vomiting
- Breathing difficulties
- Defecation
- Lack of coordination
- Tremors
- Blue or brown mucus membranes
- Seizures
- Excessive salivation
- Death
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency.
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Ask a Vet Live NowTreatment of Ammonium Nitrate Ingestion in Dogs
The vet may work to stabilize your dog’s condition while controlling his breathing and heart rate. The vet may also give your fur baby medication to increase urination and bowel movements. This is done to remove the toxin from your dog’s system. In addition, the vet may give your dog gastro protectants for stomach problems, poison absorbents, and treat any topical skin irritation.
The prognosis is best for dogs who receive prompt medical treatment after ingesting ammonium nitrate. A dog that has eaten a small amount of the substance will be back to normal pretty fast. However, a dog that’s suffered extensive poisoning may take weeks to recover.
In the future, it’s best to keep ammonium nitrate and other household chemicals 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.
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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