Under the category “Dogs Eat Strange Things,” we’ll have to add used tampons. While this is a bit gross to discuss, it’s necessary to get the word out that dogs do eat used feminine products.
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Are you here because your dog has eaten tampons? Are you worried the tampons will make your dog sick? If so, then you’ve come to the right place. We know it’s scary when your dog eats something he shouldn’t.
We’ve put together some information to help you and your dog. In this article, we’ll take a look at tampons and whether or not they can make a dog sick. We’ll also provide information on when to call the vet. Let’s get started!
Why Do Dogs Eat Tampons?
Dogs eat these strange things for a wide variety of reasons. For one thing, your dog may have found the tampons and thought they would make interesting things to play with. During play, the dog might have accidentally swallowed the tampons.
Some canines also become bored, frustrated, anxious (such as when left alone), and more. And some dogs are drawn by scents. If something smells like their pet parent, it must be OK to eat!
But what happens when a dog eats used tampons?
Used Tampons & Dogs
Two things can happen. If you have a large dog, eating more than one used tampon may not pose a problem. They may eventually come out in his poop. However, if you have a smaller dog, then eating several tampons could cause serious trouble.
It’s possible a dog could develop an intestinal blockage after eating used tampons. This can happen to a dog of any size.
One good thing about eating used tampons is that they are already expanded. Unused tampons have not become saturated and could expand even more than used tampons. Even so, there’s still the real danger of an intestinal blockage to consider. Intestinal blockages can lead to death if left untreated.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of an Intestinal Blockage in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog develops an intestinal blockage:
- Lethargy
- Refusing to lie down (due to pain)
- Loss of appetite (may also not want to drink water)
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Excessive drooling
- Abdominal pain and bloating
If your dog has developed any of these symptoms, then call the vet immediately. This could be an emergency.
We would also recommend calling the vet right after you find the dog has eaten used tampons. This way, the vet can provide you with the best advice on what to do next.
Treatment of Intestinal Blockage in Dogs
After examining your dog, the vet will also run lab work and may take x-rays. The x-rays may show where the used tampons are located in the dog’s digestive tract.
If the used tampons are still in your fur baby’s stomach, the vet may try to retrieve them through an endoscopic procedure. However, if the tampons are farther down in the intestines, then your canine companion may require emergency abdominal surgery.
The good news is that if a dog receives prompt medical care after eating used tampons, he has a great chance at making a full recovery!
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.
Kim
Kim is a talented author, who loves animals especially dogs. She engaged in writing books and articles relating to animals a decade ago. Kim resides in Chicago with her husband and son. The family is the proud owner of a dog and a parrot (Jack and Lily). Kim wanted more than these two pets, but her husband put his foot down... She often visits elementary schools to talk to the kids about what she learned about pets and how they could learn from them.
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