Nothing is more frustrating than to come home and find your dog has torn up a blanket. You may find blanket stuffing all over the house! Some dogs seem to have great joy in making the largest mess possible!
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But what if your dog has swallowed blanket stuffing? Could blanket stuffing make your dog sick?
Blanket Stuffing
Blanket stuffing can be made out of many types of materials. Some of the most common include polyester, cotton, fleece, or even chenille. Weighted blankets may also include plastic poly pellets, micro glass beads, or even steel shot beads. Any of these can cause a problem in your dog’s digestive tract.
What If Your Dog Swallows Blanket Stuffing?
If your fur baby has swallowed only a very small amount or piece of stuffing, chances are he will be OK. You’ll need to monitor your canine companion for a few days. Watch to see if the stuffing comes out in his poop, or if your dog develops any unusual symptoms.
On the other hand, if your dog has swallowed a large amount of blanket stuffing, then this could be a serious problem. The problem is that a large amount of any type of stuffing can become a choking hazard, or it can lead to an intestinal blockage. Both are serious conditions.
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If your dog is choking, first see if you can safely remove the stuffing from his mouth or the back of his throat. If not, then call the vet immediately. This is a medical emergency.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of an Intestinal Blockage in Dogs
Your dog could develop these symptoms if he’s swallowed a large amount of blanket stuffing:
- Loss of appetite
- Dehydration
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weakness
- Abdominal pain and swelling
- Constipation
If your dog develops any of these symptoms, then call the vet immediately. This is a life-threatening medical emergency. Your dog needs prompt medical treatment.
Note: do not induce vomiting unless your vet recommends this.
Treatment of Intestinal Blockage in Dogs
When you reach the vet, they will perform a physical exam of your dog. They may also do some lab work and x-rays or other imaging. The x-rays are used to determine exactly where the blockage is located in your dog’s digestive system.
If the stuffing is still in your dog’s stomach, the vet may be able to remove it through an endoscopic treatment. However, if the stuffing is lodged in your canine companion’s intestines, then he will need surgery to have this removed safely.
Dogs that receive prompt medical treatment have a higher chance of a full recovery after an intestinal blockage.
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!
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