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Most vehicles today use power steering fluid to make it easier to steer. The liquid is used in vehicles of all types, including cars, trucks, and more. But what happens if a dog drinks power steering fluid? Can the fluid make a dog sick?
Has your dog drunk power steering fluid? Are you worried the power steering fluid will make your dog sick? If so, then you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your dog drinks something like this.
We’ve put together some information about power steering fluid and whether it can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is Power Steering Fluid?
Power steering fluid is an essential part of a vehicle’s steering mechanism. The fluid makes it easier to control and steer the vehicle. In addition, the fluid makes sure the hoses, valves, pistons, and power steering pump work well. The fluid works to lubricate the moving parts of the steering system, too.
Power steering fluid is usually a red, amber, pink, or light, clear color. You know it’s bad when it turns brown or foamy. These are signs it’s time to change your power steering fluid.
But what happens if a dog drinks power steering fluid?
Power Steering Fluid & Dogs
Unfortunately, power steering fluid can be toxic to dogs. If a dog drinks this fluid, he has a chance of having mild to life-threatening symptoms.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Power Steering Fluid Ingestion in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog drinks power steering fluid:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Depression
- Instability and trouble walking
- Tremors
- Convulsions
- Irregular heartbeat
- Breathing difficulty
- Loss of consciousness
- Loss of bodily functions
It’s possible the dog may not develop symptoms for up to two days; it depends on how much of the fluid he’s drunk. However, if you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency.
When you call the vet, be sure to let them know how much power steering fluid the dog has drunk. Also, let them know about how long ago this happened. This information can be helpful for the vet in determining how to help your canine companion.
As always, prevention is the best medicine! So always keep chemicals, medications, and household cleaners out of your dog’s reach. And if a liquid spills, clean it up quickly before your fur baby has a chance to drink it!
Connect with a verified veterinarian in minutes. No waiting for appointments or office hours. No high fees. 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.
Review symptoms, medications & behavior to keep your pets healthy with a Vet Online in just minutes.
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