Dogs have the tendency to do some pretty gross things like going through the trash or worse, the litter tray. Is consuming cat litter a health hazard for dogs? If you’ve noticed your dog eating cat litter, you may have some concerns. Your worry is legitimate because, while cat litter is typically non-toxic, it’s also non-digestible and can make your dog sick.
If you are in or near Traveler’s Rest, SC and your dog has eaten cat litter- or you have another pet that you are concerned about- contact Balanced Pets. We are an integrative clinic, focused on primary and holistic care for your four-legged friends.
In this article, we’ll explain more about the hazards of cat litter for dogs and what you should do if you catch your dog eating it.
Reasons Dogs Eat Cat Litter
Most dogs do not purposely eat cat litter. It doesn’t have much of a taste and it’s usually not very interesting. However, dogs do enjoy eating cat poop, which usually means they consume a little cat litter along with it. However, if you do catch your dog eating cat litter without cat poop, they likely have a mineral deficiency, which should be addressed by a vet.
Is Cat Litter a Health Hazard to Dogs?
Yes, cat litter is dangerous for your canine companion. While the ingredients in cat litter are non-toxic, it can cause an upset stomach at the very least and may cause blockages in the digestive system that require surgical intervention.
While all cat litter is dangerous, the clumping kind is the most dangerous because the clumps absorb things in the stomach and clump together, causing blockages.
What Should You Do if Your Dog Eats Cat Litter?
If you catch your dog eating cat litter, you should:
Stop them
The first step is to stop them from eating more, which usually means separating them from the area so that you can clean it up.
Call the nearest vet clinic
Next, you’ll need to call your vet or, if yours is not available, call the nearest open veterinarian or emergency clinic. You’ll need to be able to tell them the size of your dog, the type of cat litter that was eaten, and approximately how much was eaten. The vet will also want to know if your dog is showing signs of stomach upset.
Follow the vet’s instructions
A vet is the best person to help you determine the best course of action. If your dog is larger and only ate a very small amount, they may recommend that you wait and see what happens. If your dog is smaller, ate a lot, or ate clumping litter, they may recommend that you bring them in or make them vomit at home. They may also recommend medications to help the litter get through the digestive system.
Don’t try to treat them alone
Many people believe that they know their pets better than the vet, especially if they have owned dogs before or have been in similar situations. However, it’s important to keep in mind that every situation is different. Don’t rely on home remedies you’ve read on the internet when it comes to your pet’s health and well-being.
Observe your dog
Pay close attention to your dog for symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, inappetence, diarrhea, or abdominal pain for at least 24 to 48 hours. You should also watch for symptoms such as straining, constipation, and bloody feces.
Visit Balanced Pets in Traveler’s Rest, SC
If you are in or near Traveler’s Rest, SC, let Balanced Pets take care of your four-legged companions. We offer primary and holistic healthcare for all types of pets. If you are traveling, we also offer boarding services. Contact us today to learn more about all of our services!