Can your dog eat a sponge? You must be knowing this answer. But what to do if your dog ate a sponge? To find out this one, you need to read this guide where we have come up with a medical solution to give your dog if he ate a sponge. Let’s get started reading the same.
No, dogs should never be allowed to eat sponges. They also can’t digest it. Due to their tendency to inflate when soaked in fluids, sponges have the most risk to dogs. If he eats a sponge, it also might result in a clog inside your dog’s stomach or intestines. It can stop your dog from eating and properly ejecting waste.
Risks of Eating Sponges in Dogs
Most dogs are absolutely uninterested in eating sponges. The reason is neither organic nor inorganic sponges have much of a flavor or smell. Usually, they’ll just chew on them to relax or pass the time if they’re bored.
But if your dog wants to eat sponges often, that is an issue. Most dogs like eating sponges out of curiosity, and if they eat the whole of it, it may create a health issue for them. A tiny piece of sponge in the stomach shouldn’t do too much harm.
Your dog should be alright if there are no symptoms and normal feces for more than 48 hours. It would be best to notify your veterinarian as soon as possible if you have a small dog or a puppy because even a small piece can raise a health concern.
You may avoid this problem by giving your dog more suitable toys to keep him entertained.
In addition, you should keep dogs away from spongy packing material and anything else that may look chewable to them but is not good for their health.
Symptoms to look for if my dog ate sponge
If your dog ate a sponge, that is concerning. There will be signs of discomfort that you should not overlook. Look for these symptoms and treat them accordingly.
Vomiting–
When there is a blockage or anything that hasn’t been digested, vomiting frequently happens. Your dog may be attempting to cough the sponge back up if they vomit shortly after eating it. It depends on the size of the sponge consumed. If it is large, it could get caught in the esophagus while going back up, leading to asphyxia.
After a few days, if your dog starts vomiting, you should take him to the vet right away. The sponge is probably producing a clog in the digestive system.
Choking–
If your dog is choking and cannot breathe properly, he/she is in danger. It simply means a foreign element is inside your dog’s throat and he/she is trying to get it out. Such condition requires immediate vet attention, and it can possibly happen due to eating a sponge.
Constipation–
If there’s a blockage in your dog’s stomach, the very first sign you would see will either be constipation or Diarrhea. If the obstruction has a partial blockage watery stools may be the only thing that your dog can pass.
Other than that, it would be difficult for your dog to poop naturally, and thus, routine examining the stool is necessary. Keep your guard up and observe the bowel movements for a few days, even if you detect remnants of the sponge.
Lethargy–
Lack of appetite or the inability to eat due to a blockage can lead to lethargy. They could have a fever or aching muscles. If it happens, they will show less inclination to routine things they used to like, including playing or going for regular walks.
They might behave out of nature or otherwise exhibit odd behavior. So, if you notice any of these, contact your vet.
Gastrointestinal infection– Abdominal pain is a huge warning sign of an infection. If your dog experiences abdominal discomfort after accidentally eating anything, you should bring him in immediately for a checkup.
Constipation, inflammation, or obstruction can all cause lower abdominal pain. When a dog is experiencing abdominal pain, it will vocalize its displeasure. They will feel pain or discomfort when you touch their stomach. They can even lie down in odd postures.
My dog ate a sponge- what to do?
If your dog ate any sponge, do the following actions as soon as you can.
Contact your pet’s veterinarian– Based on the information you offer; your doctor will be able to advise you on what to do next. Bring your dog in for a checkup, extra diagnostic tests, and medication if your vet thinks the sponge is likely to pass.
Or maybe you just need to keep an eye on your dog at home. Keep in mind to follow your vet’s advice, and let them know if you have any questions.
Give a solid meal– You may give your dog filling foods like bran muffins, cottage cheese, mashed potatoes, fiber bread, and more. It might be beneficial to bulk up the stools to aid the sponge in passing through rapidly.
Give your dog enough water– Don’t just stop feeding your dog or keep him thirsty for long. No matter what it is, until the vet comes, keep giving plenty of water to your dog and ensure that you keep him hydrated.
FAQs
Is my dog safe after eating a sponge?
Your dog might be in danger. Look for any of the symptoms mentioned above and go to the vet immediately.
Should I call my vet if my dog eats sponges?
You should immediately give call your vet and ask for medical help if there is something unusual.
Can dogs pass foam?
Dogs can’t digest plastics, so it’s very dangerous for them to eat Styrofoam. If they eat large pieces of Styrofoam, that could be a choking hazard for them. Nevertheless, they can easily pass small fragments via stool within 72 hours
Wrapping up,
Have you ever been in this situation where your dog ate a random thing that freaked you out?
If yes, please let us know how did you handle the situation and if you have any questions related to this guide, drop them down.