What to do if a dog eats dental floss? - briefly
If your dog has ingested dental floss, it is crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional, as this can cause further complications.
What to do if a dog eats dental floss? - in detail
If your dog has ingested dental floss, it's important to act promptly and calmly. While dental floss is not toxic, it can pose significant health risks due to its physical characteristics. Here's what you should do:
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Stay Calm: Your dog will pick up on your emotions. Remain calm and collected to avoid distressing your pet further.
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Assess the Situation: Check if any part of the floss is still visible or sticking out from your dog's mouth. If so, do not attempt to pull it out as this could cause more harm. Instead, proceed with the following steps.
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Call Your Vet Immediately: Inform your veterinarian about the situation. They can provide guidance tailored to your dog's specific needs and health condition. If your vet is unavailable, contact an emergency animal hospital.
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Monitor for Symptoms: While waiting for veterinary advice or intervention, keep an eye out for any of the following symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain or distension
- Difficulty defecating or passing stool
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Do Not Induce Vomiting: Unlike some other foreign objects, dental floss should not be induced to vomit due to its string-like nature. This could lead to the floss wrapping around internal organs, causing serious complications like intestinal obstruction or perforation.
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Withhold Food and Water: To minimize further digestive activity and reduce the risk of the floss moving through the gastrointestinal tract, withhold food and water until your vet advises otherwise.
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Follow Veterinary Instructions: Your vet may advise you to bring your dog in for an examination. In some cases, they might recommend monitoring at home if the floss is expected to pass naturally without complications. Always follow their professional advice.
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Prevent Future Incidents: To prevent similar occurrences, ensure dental floss and other small items are stored safely out of your dog's reach. Consider using a designated cabinet or drawer for such items.