Dogs are known for putting anything in their mouths, including art supplies. This happens especially when they are puppies because they use their mouths to explore their environment. If your dog ate a crayon, there’s usually no need to worry, as crayons are not toxic to pets. That said, in some rare cases, swallowed crayons can lead to stomach upset, obstruction, or choking.
Should I Worry if My Dog Eats a Crayon?
Crayons are made of paraffin wax and pigment and are considered non-toxic. After all, the companies that make crayons make them for children, and just like dogs, kids like to put everything they touch in their mouths.
So, if your dog eats a crayon, it most often will come out the other side nearly unchanged. Sometimes, though, dogs can get an upset digestive system. Other problems that can occur rarely are choking/suffocation if the crayon gets stuck in your dog’s throat or obstruction of the digestive tract (esophagus, stomach, or intestine), especially if you have a small dog that eats a large piece of crayon or several crayons.
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What to Watch for if Your Dog Eats a Crayon
Crayons are not toxic to dogs and can pass through their digestive system unchanged. Large dogs will usually have no problems if they eat a crayon. However, small and toy breeds may experience some digestive issues.
1. Clinical Signs of an Upset Stomach
Even if crayons are not considered toxic to dogs, they can still cause an upset stomach. Clinical signs may include:
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Drooling
- Diarrhea or lack of bowel movement
- Lack of appetite
- Gas
- Lethargy
If these clinical signs occur after your dog ate a crayon, a visit to the vet is essential.
2. Clinical Signs of an Obstruction
If your dog ingests multiple crayons, they can get stuck in the esophagus, stomach, or intestine, causing an obstruction. Unfortunately, obstruction of the digestive tract is a condition that can put your dog’s life in danger, so you must act fast. In general, surgery is needed to remove the obstruction for your dog to be saved. The clinical signs may include:
- Vomiting (repetitively)
- Diarrhea (possibly bloody)
- Weakness
- Bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
- Dehydration
- Whining
- Hunching
If these clinical signs occur or they persist or worsen, contact the veterinarian immediately for an evaluation.
3. Clinical Signs of Choking
In other cases, the crayons don’t even reach your dog’s stomach because they get stuck in the throat, possibly causing suffocation. Clinical signs may include:
- Pawing at the mouth
- Difficulty breathing
- Distress
- Drooling
- Coughing
- Gagging
- Retching
- Blue gums (cyanosis)
- Panic
- Panting
- Dog lying down or sitting in unusual positions
This is considered a medical emergency and you must act immediately.
Here is what you can do:
- Gently open your dog’s mouth and try to dislodge the crayon(s) with your fingers or hand (if they are visible). Be careful not to hurt yourself.
- If step one does not work or the crayons are not visible, get to a vet immediately.
What You Should Do if Your Dog Ate a Crayon
If you see your dog with a crayon in their mouth, remove it as soon as possible and prevent them from consuming more. The more crayons they ingest, the more severe the effects will be on your pet. If you have seen or suspect that your dog has already eaten a crayon (or several), here is what you can do:
- Do not induce vomiting at home. Always consult with your vet if your dog ingests a foreign object like a crayon, even if it’s not toxic. However, inducing vomiting can be harmful, so it may not always be necessary.
Monitor your dog for any changes in behavior or signs of illness after swallowing a crayon. If they exhibit symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or refusal to eat, contact your vet. Keep an eye on their bowel movements to check if the crayon passes through. If there are any issues or if your dog doesn’t have a bowel movement, seek immediate veterinary assistance.
Preventing your dog from eating crayons in the future is important. Keep them away from areas where crayons are accessible, like kids’ rooms or trash bins. Provide chew toys or treats to satisfy their chewing instinct and prevent boredom. If the behavior persists, consult a veterinarian or animal behaviorist for guidance.
In conclusion, most dogs will not experience serious issues from swallowing a crayon, but vigilance is key. In rare cases, complications like blockages or choking can occur, so it’s crucial to address the situation promptly. Remember, your pet’s safety is paramount. piece of text in your own words:
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