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Nasal sprays are very common and come in a wide range of formulations. Some contain only saline, while others may be OTC medications. Then there are nasal sprays that contain prescription medicines. You may find nasal sprays that contain decongestant medication or even corticosteroids.
Many of us use nasal sprayers, and if you’re a pet parent, there’s always the possibility your fur baby could find the nasal spray! But are nasal sprays dangerous for dogs?
Has your dog drunk some nasal spray? Are you worried the nasal spray will make him sick? If so, then you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your dog drinks something like this.
In this article, we’ve put together some information about nasal spray and if it can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is Nasal Spray?
Nasal sprays usually contain some liquid that is aerosolized when sprayed into the nose. The liquid may be saline, a decongestant, a corticosteroid, an allergy medication, and more. Some nasal sprays are available OTC, while you need a prescription for others.
The sprays are used to apply the liquid/medication to the inside of the nose and nasal cavity. The drug works directly on the tissues in the nose. Nasal sprays are used to treat sinus infections, stuffy noses, allergy symptoms, relieve congestion, and more.
Nasal sprays also deliver prescription medications to treat migraines, nausea, and more. In addition, you can also find nasal sprays that contain hormone replacement therapy, drugs for Alzheimer’s, and so much more!
But what happens if a dog drinks nasal spray? Will the nasal spray make a dog sick?
Nasal Spray & Dogs
Dogs may gain access to nasal spray if it’s left where it’s accessible to them. For instance, you may use the nasal spray and leave it on the counter or the bedside table. These are a couple of examples, but you see what we mean. Dogs can reach a variety of places where the spray is left.
Our canine friends are also famous for being curious about what we use or eat. So, if your dog sees you using the nasal spray, he may not want to miss out on anything good! So, he grabs the nasal spray, chews a hole in it, and drinks the liquid inside. Can this make a dog sick?
The answer is that it depends on what the nasal spray contains. If the spray only contains saline, your dog won’t get sick from that. There’s more danger if he’s eaten part of the product packaging! However, if your canine companion drinks medicated nasal spray, there’s a possibility he could be poisoned.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Nasal Spray Toxicity in Dogs
- Collapse
- Confusion
- Depression
- Dilated pupils
- Excessive panting
- Extreme blood pressure changes
- Heart rate abnormalities
- Hyperactivity
- Restlessness
- Seizures
- Tremors
- Sudden death
- Vomiting
- Weakness
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency. When calling the vet, be sure to give them the name of the product and the ingredients (or the name of the prescription medication). Tell the vet about what time your fur baby drank the nasal spray, too. This information can help the vet treat your dog quickly with suitable therapies.
Dogs that receive prompt medical care have the best chance of making a full recovery. But, in the end, prevention is always the best medicine! Be sure to keep all medications out of your dog’s reach.
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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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