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Dogs sometimes eat the strangest things! Some dogs love to eat sticks, while others may focus on socks or stuffing pulled from their toys. But what happens if a dog eats gauze? Can gauze make a dog sick?
Has your dog eaten gauze? Are you worried the gauze 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 put together information about gauze and whether it can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is Gauze?
Gauze is a very thin, translucent fabric that’s sometimes used to make bandages or wrap to support sprains and cover wounds. On an interesting note, did you know that gauze was originally woven in Gaza? It was once a center of weaving. The gauze they made was woven from silk and was used to make clothing.
Today, however, gauze is made of cotton fibers that are loosely woven. It’s made to absorb fluids and encourage airflow. The fabric may be coarse or fine, depending on how it’s used.
Sterile gauze squares can be used to clean wounds, while other types of gauze are used to dress wounds. Some gauze has a non-adherent surface and can be used to dress wounds without getting stuck in the healing skin. The fabric is also sometimes used to pack a wound to control bleeding.
While gauze can be safe when used in the right way, what happens if a dog eats gauze?
Gauze & Dogs
Unfortunately, gauze can cause problems for dogs and make them sick. The issue is that it can pose a choking hazard. And if the dog manages to swallowt the gauze down, the fabric could become lodged in the dog’s digestive tract.
If your dog has swallowed a small piece of gauze (relative to his size), there’s a possibility the gauze will just come out in his poop. However, if he is unlucky then it may cause intestinal blockage, a serious medical condition that can lead to death if left untreated.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Gauze Ingestion in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has eaten gauze:
- Choking (coughing, gagging, breathing difficulties)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Lack of appetite
- Abdominal pain & swelling
- Constipation
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency.
Even if your dog has swallowed a small piece of gauze, it’s best to call the vet and get their advice. It’s possible the gauze could come out in your dog’s poop if it’s only a small piece; however, it’s best to be on the safe side and call the vet.
When you call the vet, let them know what’s happened and how much gauze you think your dog has eaten. Tell the vet when this happened. They may also want to know if the gauze was dirty or not (for example, if the gauze was covering an infected wound, was it bloody, etc.). While this is gross, this information may help the vet determine the next steps to help your canine companion.
The good news is that most dogs will make a complete recovery if they receive prompt medical treatment!
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Rebecca MacMillan, BVetMed BSAVA PGCertSAM MRCVS
This article has been reviewed and approved by an independent Veterinarian: Rebecca is a companion animal vet who has always had a passion for writing and client communication. Since her graduation from the Royal Veterinary college in 2009 she has gained a wealth of experience in first opinion small animal practice, in both clinical and managerial roles. She currently works in the South West and deals with a variety of routine and emergency appointments, but particularly enjoys medicine cases. Outside of work and writing, she enjoys spending time with her family, including her bouncy flat coated retriever George!
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