According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the risk of silica exposure is linked to the development of lung diseases known as silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis (SIRF). Silica gel is not harmful when swallowed. The ingestion of a babys diaper can have serious health consequences for both the pet and the owner. These symptoms could indicate your child has an intestinal obstruction from the silica gel packet. Your dogs health will almost certainly necessitate that he be evaluated and treated. The packet helps keep the devices dry and free of moisture. How do you remove oxygen from packaged foods? If your pet has ingested something foreign, you should contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 for further guidance and assistance. My 25lb dachshund just ate a small silica packet. From beginners to advanced, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. But there are often ways to resolve the issue at home. If your dog noshes on some fertilizer, call your veterinarian and list the ingredients your dog ingested. Worst-case scenario: your pet may have an upset stomach for a bit, but the litter should quickly pass through their system. If your beloved pet samples some silica, your best course of action is to keep an eye on her. If a duplicate is available there are two characteristics of iron that can help it is magnetic and it will appear on a radiograph as a metal density. How to Help an Abused Dog Recover 8 Tips and Tricks, Answered by Dr. Sharon Butzke, DVM (Vet), Answered by Dr. Joanna Woodnutt, BVM BVS (Vet), Have a cat? Heres How Much Protein You Need in a Day to Build Muscle, in museum display cases to preserve the contents. Free iron in the blood is toxic to the body as it disrupts normal cell function, damaging organs such as the liver, stomach, and cardiovascular system. If your pet has ingested silica gel, please contact your veterinarian or APCC for more information. So, silica gel packets play a key role in the entire food industry, including the beef jerky industry. When you purchase items like shoes, medicine, or electronics, you may notice little silica gel pods in the packaging, inviting your dog to make a snack out of them. The blockage may occur anywhere within the gastrointestinal tract, including within the esophagus, stomach, or intestines. Prevention is always better than cure and therefore we must keep potentially harmful items like Silica gel away from our dogs and out of reach. Check what youre pouring out before feeding it directly to your dog. While we provide information resources and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Silicone gel, which contains silicon dioxide, is nontoxic to humans and dogs. This means it wont break down in the body and cause poisoning. Text STOP to opt-out, HELP for more info. But don't stop there subscribe to our social and newsletter below to keep exploring the jerky universe! When you purchase items like shoes, medicine, or electronics, you may notice little silica gel pods in the packaging, inviting your dog to make a snack out of them. Although it is not toxic, the gel can be ingested by small dogs, causing them to become ill. How safe is my dog to be around humans? It is not harmful to dogs to consume silica gel packets because they do not contain any toxic chemicals. How To Prevent Dogs From Chewing or Eating Things They Shouldnt? Thats why manufacturers often label them with Do not eat or Throw away after using.. Ferrous iron is then absorbed in the small intestine where it is oxidized into its ferric iron (Fe3+) form before being released into the bloodstream. Some silica products are mixed with a moisture indicator, these indicators may be toxic in large doses. If you have a small dog or your pup has consumed a large amount of the stuff, consult your veterinarian. If your dog consumes a large amount of silica gel packets, he may exhibit additional symptoms. If you have a pet that has eaten a silica gel packet, take them to the veterinarian if theyre not passing stool as youd expect, they vomit up any food they eat, or if their abdomen appears swollen. You may have seen silica packets in everything from beef jerky to the new shoes you bought. If any moisture enters a container of beef jerky, the meat can spoil early. Do I need to be worried? Your pet's condition may be life-threatening. If you give the dog this absorber, it could cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death. Dr. Wismer says while these products arent too much of a cause for concern, any incident should be looked at on a case-by-case basis. Q: Is it a threat to dogs? If you are referring to a silica gel pack (like the kind used to keep moisture out of things like beef jerky or dog treats), then you're in luck. Q: Why is it labeled do not eat? Can a Dog Take Metronidazole Without Food? friends steer clear of silica gel packets. Read ourIs Beef Jerky Healthy? There is no real danger if your dog ate silica gel cat litter. Non-elemental iron will most likely turn to rust by the time your dog consumes it. Because of its choking hazards and low nutritional value, it is best to throw away the packets if you see them. It is best to contact your veterinarian for advice when your dog has eaten something that it shouldnt have or if you are uncertain about the safety of the ingested item. If you notice any symptoms, you can contact your vet to find out what your next steps, if any, should be. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. However, if a cat eats a lot of silica gel, it may suffer from constipation or diarrhea. Larger dogs are much less susceptible to iron poisoning unless theyve consumed large amounts of the metal. They have to put a disclaimer on the package so children do not eat it and choke on it. > Why is it labeled do not eat? When used on a cats urine stream, it instantly removes the water and leaves no mess. There is little risk of obstruction due to the beads not enlarging in the stomach and the packaging being soft. Some claim that raw honey is healthier than regular. Many packaged products from shoes and electronics to food come with a little packet designed to keep them dry called a silica packet. 5,423 Satisfied Customers. The packet carries a do not eat label because its not intended for consumption. JA: I'll do all I can to help. The danger lies with the cylinder. In general, if your dog consumes a large amount of silica gel, his gut may become blocked. Therefore, these will develop inside your pups intestinal tract. Unfortunately, children can mistake a packet for food, candy, or a chew toy and eat the silica gel or the entire packet. Don't disregard advice from a vet. This may include signs of an upset stomach such as vomiting, nausea, drooling, and abdominal pain. Silicon dioxide is produced as a result of quartz crystals in silica gel. Consuming the amount of silica typically found in a small (1-2-inch packet) probably wont do your canine much harm besides possibly causing minor digestive upset. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. How much does the dog weigh? It is an ingredient found in cat litter and is commonly used. Im Dolev, a passionate dog trainer and expert. Your dog may experience abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea if he or she consumes a large amount of food. What Happens If You Eat The Packet In Beef Jerky. Water is removed from the air through the removal of silica gel as a desiccant. Based on these findings, the oxygen absorbers most likely contained metallic iron powder, which would be consistent with the term reduced iron. Small packets of silica gel are unlikely to cause your cat a problem, even if swallowed. Chives are members of the Allium family (which also includes onion, garlic, and leeks), and they are poisonous to cats and dogs. That said, the silica gel pellets can be a choking hazard, especially for little kids. Silica cat litter with clumping capabilities can be more problematic; as the little mounds form when wet. Whats so alarming about iron poisoning is that symptoms can show up anywhere from one to five days after consumption, so you may not know right away that anything is wrong. If you have a pet that has eaten a silica gel packet, take them to the veterinarian if they're not passing stool as you'd expect, they vomit up any food they eat, or if their abdomen appears. Cobalt (II) chloride and methyl violet are the two most commonly used dyes. We will look at whether silica gel is toxic to dogs, what to do if they ingest it, and how to prevent dogs from eating inedible items in the first place. Why you should never throw away silica packets? Stay on top of dog food recalls here >, Have a question? It may be necessary to dispose of harmful products in sealed trash bins to protect from scavenging behavior or placing locks on cupboards and fridge freezers to protect from unwanted invaders. Some dogs may be more interested in eating inedible items than othersit will depend on their age and personality. Our team is made up of professional pet trainers, veterinarians, and experienced pet owners who have a wealth of knowledge and experience to share. Silica gel, desiccant and oxygen absorber packetscan be found in shoe boxes and handbags as well as things made of leather to keep them dry while they are packaged. A stray silica packet is a small, white packet that often comes with new electronic devices. In fact, silica gel might be printed on the packet. It may not have any impact at all. It is unregulated in most countries as silica gel is inert and not toxic. It is not poisonous if consumed because silica gel is non-toxic. If your dog eats silica gel, but only a small amount, this is unlikely to cause any harm to your dog. Silica packets perform this task superbly. Chewing up these little forgotten items is a common pastime for canines. If you suspect that your pet is ill, please contact Poison Control, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. If my dog ate something harmful, should I induce vomiting at home? Stay informed! If your veterinarian would like you to monitor your dog, you should look for any signs that your dog is not feeling like his normal self. These absorbers are packets filled with iron powder that oxidize and absorb oxygen when exposed to it. If this is the case you may see abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea. Ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, pink urine, black stool, and liver damage. Q: What is it? If the owner does not have a magnet, the powder is magnetic or the product was swallowed whole, it should be assumed that iron may have been ingested and further action is needed. For more detailed information about how we use cookies, please review our. Try not to get mad at your dog if they gain access to forbidden items as this, unfortunately, can further encourage this behavior. Administration of oral aluminum or magnesium hydroxide (Alternagel or Milk of Magnesia) may prevent some systemic absorption of iron by precipitating elemental iron into an insoluble form. Types of Cysts on Dogs and How to Treat Them, Anal Gland Cancer in Dogs: Symptoms and Prognosis, How to Easily Bathe A Dog with the Latest Dog Bathing Tools, 2016 Reader Survey Sweepstakes Official Rules, Dogster Magazine Subscription Maintenance, Editors Choice Awards 2022 Dogster Approved. If any moisture enters a container of beef jerky, the meat can spoil early. Because its a choking hazard and has no nutritious value, its best to throw away the packets away if you see them. Little packets of silica gel are placed within many different products, such as food, clothing, and electrical items, as they help absorb water vapor, thus preventing products from getting damp and becoming damaged or soiled. When I first started writing on Dog Lovers Digest back in 2009, I really had no idea what I was getting into. When eating silica gel packets, it is common to mistake them for sugar or salt packets. An oxygen absorber is made up of iron and moisture, which act as a moisture activater and oxidizer. I would buy the cheap kind at the gas station, and it always came with a little silica packet inside. Keep them away from children. This may include inducing vomiting, x-rays, or hospitalization for observation and treatment. If your dog hasnt shown any symptoms after eating silica gel packets, its likely not harmful. Silica gel is frequently found in boxes that contain electronics or new shoes, as well as purses or medicine bottles. A label that says DO NOT EAT has been designated for small children due to the potential choking hazard. Alternatively, a quick call to Pet Poison Helpline can readily help determine the pets risk and need for decontamination. If clinical signs of gastrointestinal upset are seen anti-emetics, H, If the iron level comes back greater then 300-400 mcg/dL chelation therapy with deferoxamine may be necessary to prevent organ damage. While silica exposure can be hazardous, it is not commonly inhaled, according to the CDC. When silica gel beads are swallowed, they can cause stomach upset. The silica could absorb some of the medication. Following the induction of emesis, gastric lavage or whole bowel irrigation may be necessary. Avocados, which are grown for human consumption, contain persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. They can cause minor digestive problems, but the symptoms usually go away on their own. Depending on the size of your dog and the amount of silica gel they have eaten, it may be necessary for a veterinary visit for further assessment and treatment. Those little packets of beads are often found in bottles of medication. Despite the fact that Cobalt chloride is a rare toxic compound, it is not poisonous when coated in this manner with silica gel. You can also contact your pets veterinarian if you suspect they ate one or more silica gel packets. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your dog eats silica bead packets, he should show symptoms of intestinal obstruction. Your dog will probably chew on it first, breaking it apart before it can be swallowed whole. The pet should be given supportive care until the serum iron level results are returned. > Why is it labeled "do not eat"? Animal owners who use silica-containing litter will not notice any negative consequences. If the oxygen absorber is broken open, dark brown to rust colored material is visible. Theres also the risk of aspiration or using the wrong substance to induce vomiting. In most dried food items, medications and even shoeboxes there is a little packet placed there by the manufacturer to maintain freshness. If your dog acts and eats normally in the following hours, he should not need to be concerned. Its also wise to make sure your feline and canine friends steer clear of silica gel packets. Silica packets are not very harmful for dogs, and are considered to be 'practically' non-toxic. If you notice anything unusual, take your cat to a veterinarian as soon as possible. If you eat a lot of it, the gel is nontoxic, but not harmful. They said that she was fine and that the silica packet probably just upset her stomach. Despite being non-toxic, silica gel can be difficult to avoid for children. Silica gel packets can often be found in the following: Manufacturers started labeling silica gel packets with more alarming language some even have a skull and crossbones because the Poison Control Centers started to report more incidences of people swallowing the packets on accident. It is not uncommon for pets to be poisoned by essential oils such as eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, cinnamon, peppermint, pine, wintergreen, and ylang-ylang. If curiosity gets the better of you (please dont let it) or you accidentally eat silica gel, watch for symptoms like stomach ache, vomiting, nausea and constipation. Symptoms of gastrointestinal blockage in dogs include: Vomiting Diarrhea Constipation Lethargy Lack of appetite Weakness Dehydration Bloating Abdominal pain Whining If your dog has a negative reaction to the color or package issue, his or her sickness may be caused by the freshness packet. Q: Why is it labeled "do not eat"? If the packet is swallowed whole, the silica gel is biologically inert and chemically inert, so the main risk is that packets can obstruct the intestines. Remove any remaining silica gel packets and put them away in a secure location. What to do if your pet eats something poisonous. Alternatively, your veterinarian may suggest monitoring at home is all that is necessary. Hepper is reader-supported. Eating silica gel shouldnt make you sick. Iron Intoxication in a Dog Consequent to the Ingestion of Oxygen Absorber Sachets in Pet Treat Packaging. They are low in cholesterol and sodium, but because of their high sugar content, bananas should be given as a treat, not part of your dogs main diet. An "overdose" of beef jerky will likely cause some diarrhea in the next day or so and I would expect Joey to drink a lot of water over the next several days. No harmful gases are released during oxygen absorption. When I was a kid, I used to love beef jerky. The risk of poisoning is highest in dogs weighing less than 15 pounds. Griffith et al. We use cookies for our legitimate interests of providing you with personalized content, enabling you to more easily use our website, evaluating use of our website, and assisting with ad reporting functions. If your dog swallowed an oxygen absorber, you should most likely take him to the veterinarian. If the contents are dark in color the owner should place a magnet over the black powder, if it isnt magnetic, the product is likely non-toxic charcoal and, again, the owner can monitor at home. The purpose of these little packets is to either reduce moisture in the packaging or to absorb oxygen. Oxygen scavengers are completely safe to use, are not edible (choking hazard) and non-toxic. Examine the color of your dogs gums as you lift his or her lip. Silica gel is chemically inert. Serum iron concentration and ALT were elevated. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Ingestion of silica gel beads may result in the symptoms of an upset stomach, especially if a large amount is eaten relative to your dog's size - for instance, if a small dog eats a large packet of silica gel. If the packet in question contains elemental iron, it will probably be in the form of brown or rust-colored pellets. . The silica gel beads are not poisonous, and will not hurt your dog if ingested. It can be, especially if it contains iron. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. If you are unsure whether the product you are using contains cobalt chloride, please contact the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 1-800-222-1222. Silicon dioxide dries out anything around them. A: Elemental iron granules are placed in small packets called oxygen absorbers are added to bags of pre-prepared or dehydrated food stuffs to absorb excess oxygen. For this reason, manufacturers label them Do not eat. If a loved one is choking on silica gel, call 911 and seek emergency medical attention. We dont recommend it. Silica is a desiccant it absorbs moisture to keep items from deteriorating. Symptoms you might notice after your dog eats silica gel include: Drooling Vomiting Abdominal pain Diarrhea Inappetence Lethargy What Should I Do If My Dog Eats Silica Gel? An accidental ingestion of silica gel can result in an intoxication, dehydration, and bowel obstruction. Keep any packet far away from the kids in your household, and properly dispose of it after youve eaten the beef jerky. Elemental iron can cause severe poisoning, even in the small amounts contained in one oxygen absorber packet. Non-toxic, not poisonous, they do pose a choking hazard. In some cases, however, manufacturers use cobalt chloride, a toxic substance, to coat silica gel. What happens if your dog eats the do not eat packet? Swallowing a packet whole is not a common occurrence. It is usually nontoxic to ingest, but some people have gotten sick from it. Nicole even worked as a dog sitter during her travels through South America and cared for stray pups something she. This lab test can often be run quickly and inexpensively at a local human hospital. After ingestion, vomiting (with or without blood) is one of the first signs of poisoning. Example: Yes, I would like to receive emails from Pet Poison Helpline. Fortunately, if your dog is affected, the gel shouldnt cause any long-term harm. Ask Pet Guru is a free website designed to assist you with making an informed decision regarding your dog. All rights reserved. This mineral can be found in a variety of materials, including quartz, glass, and sand. What the beads were packaged with could be cause for concern, though. This is a drying agent that is packaged in packaging to keep oxygen out of the air. It is also important to consider whether your dog has ingested additional items, such as the item that contained the silica gel packet, since this may lead to additional varied symptoms. If your dog eats large quantities of silica gel this may result in a blockage within the gut. If you regularly eat beef jerky, youve undoubtedly noticed a little white packet in the package. What happens if a cat eats a silica packet? Because of its ability to absorb, silica gel is commonly used in packaging. Raw or partially cooked food is sealed in a bag then cooked, usually at or near the desired final cooking temperature. If the obstruction is not treated, it can be fatal. If you leavea stray silica packet within the puppys reach, he may chew on it and makea snack out of the little pellets. They are magnetic, which is how you can tell them apart from dyed silica and other types of oxygen absorbers. scorpio horoscope career weekly; Sobre. Possible Complications. She says to call your veterinarian for advice, but you generally dont need to rush into an emergency veterinarian right away. Home FAQ What Happens If You Eat The Packet In Beef Jerky. And making the call can give you peace of mind. Some animals are more sensitive to silica than others, and exposure to high levels of silica can be harmful or even fatal. Once dried, vitamins and food packaging can be reused in gel packs. You know you want to be the de facto snack authority!