Some silica gel packets may be fairly large, and if ingested, could potentially cause obstruction in the intestinal tract. Heres What to Do (Vet Answer), The latest veterinarians' answers to questions from our database, Lymphadenopathy in Cats: Signs, Causes & Care, Beagle Pain Syndrome: Causes, Signs, and Care Guide. If your dog swallowed a large object, it could become lodged in the esophagus as it comes up. What Is Imitation Crab and Should You Eat It? Silica packets are not very harmful for dogs, and are considered to be 'practically' non-toxic. Animal owners who use silica-containing litter will not notice any negative consequences. We avoid using tertiary references. To prevent an accidental ingestion of a toy, keep an eye on your dogs size. What Happens if You Eat the Packet in Beef Jerky? If your dog atedesiccant like silica beads, the beads themselves arent as much of aproblem. Sometimes, adults may mistake silica gel packets for salt or sugar packets. When your dog consumes them, he or she may experience mild gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms such as diarrhea. You can also throw away any silica packets you come across so your pets and little ones are less likely to find them. talk to a vet online for advice >. If you leavea stray silica packet within the puppys reach, he may chew on it and makea snack out of the little pellets. If your dog consumes a large amount of silica gel packets, he may exhibit additional symptoms. Despite being non-toxic, silica gel can be difficult to avoid for children. Silica gel is excellent at maintaining a level of dryness. Youll usually find the little crystal packages nestled in shoeboxes, bags, or included with electronics. Watch out for these packets and throw them away in a covered trash can. 11.17. . The cooking and cooling process removes oxygen from the package. While silica beads are inert and nontoxic, your pup may experience mild gastrointestinal upset after ingestion. Dogs may be interested in eating silica gel because it smells like the tasty thing it was packaged withtheyre often included in packs of treats to stop them from absorbing moisture and spoiling. Symptoms you might notice after your dog eats silica gel include: Nicole is the proud mom of Rosa, a New Zealand Huntaway, and Baby, a Burmese cat. Theyre labeled DO NOT EAT for a reason. The charcoal will not be toxic to your pup. Learn what the terms cured and uncured bacon actually mean when you see them in the store. The packet helps keep the devices dry and free of moisture. This comes at no extra cost to you. Dr. Elaine Martinez, medical director for VCAs new Santa Monica Main Street Hospital, says that while the silica itself is not a serious issue, the packet can cause an intestinal blockage, which can be very dangerous. Originally from Canada, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband in New Zealand. If your pet is small and the packet is plastic and on the larger size, there is a small risk that it could get stuck in their stomach or intestines and cause a blockage, however this is not very common.. Youd need to administer the contents of thousands of canisters before achieving any therapeutic benefit! Oxygen absorbers can block the GI tract and act as a corrosive agent inside an external container. In fact, silica gel might be printed on the packet. Q: Why is it labeled do not eat? If a pet gets into and ingests a silica gel packet, an oxygen absorber or a desiccant, mild stomach upset is all that is typically seen, says Dr. Wismer. While silica beads are inert and nontoxic, your pup may experience mild gastrointestinal upset after ingestion. They said that she was fine and that the silica packet probably just upset her stomach. The porous packet, on the other hand, can be much more dangerous than the gel itself. Silicon dioxide is produced as a result of quartz crystals in silica gel. 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. How much iron is in an oxygen absorber packet? Its an Oxygen-Absorber. What the beads were packaged with could be cause for concern, though. This website uses cookies. Try not to get mad at your dog if they gain access to forbidden items as this, unfortunately, can further encourage this behavior. However, elemental iron is highly toxic to dogs. It may not have any impact at all. If the packet in question contains elemental iron, it will probably be in the form of brown or rust-colored pellets. If your dog ingests silica bead packets, monitor him for signs of intestinal obstruction. Hepper is reader-supported. Fortunately, silica dust is rarely encountered by our furry friends. 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. If you opened one of the white packets, youd likely find a few dozen clear gel beads containing silica gel, a desiccant formed from silica and water. Why You Should Keep Desiccants Packets in Your Kitchen No harmful gases are released during oxygen absorption. The oxygen absorbers contained 42%, 69% and 71% iron with low concentrations of chloride (less than 0.5%), sulfate (less than 0.004%), and phosphorus (less than 0.03%). These gel pouches may be found in packages of beef jerky, pizza crusts, medicine, or electronics. Canva These include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and loss of appetite . All rights reserved. Because of their silica dioxide content, it is thought that silica beads are man-made sand. If there is, see if the packet is labeled, what color the contents are and if the contents can be picked up with a magnet. One time, I was eating beef jerky and left the silica packet on the counter. The little white packets in beef jerky contain silica gel. Whilst the silica gel itself is not toxic to dogs, ingestion of significant quantities may result in an upset stomach. Nicole Cosgrove. My dog ate a silica packet that was in a package. Do I need to be But of course, its better to handle these kinds of packages with care and keep them away from your pets. You can also contact your pets veterinarian if you suspect they ate one or more silica gel packets. Your dogs prognosis is best if he receives prompt medical treatment for these problems. Keep any packet far away from the kids in your household, and properly dispose of it after youve eaten the beef jerky. Dog poisoned by sachet in jerky treats; diagnosis: Iron intoxication Drinking a few sips of water after eating can also help with any discomfort your child may have. It is found in a wide range of materials, including sand, rocks, and building materials. A: Silica gel is not intended for consumption and therefor receives the label do not eat. What happens if a dog eats a silica packet? What happens if your dog eats the do not eat packet? Heres What Science Says! The packet carries a do not eat label because its not intended for consumption. While silica gel is usually nontoxic if ingested, some people have choked on it. Q: Why is it labeled do not eat? The stuff is sometimes contained in small plastic cylinders included in packs of dog treats, chews, or your favorite beef jerky. Therefore, these will develop inside your pups intestinal tract. Based on these findings, the oxygen absorbers most likely contained metallic iron powder, which would be consistent with the term reduced iron. Spoiled beef jerky can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms, like stomach pain, headache, nausea and fever. Unfortunately, children can mistake a packet for food, candy, or a chew toy and eat the silica gel or the entire packet. While its not fun to worry about accidentally ingesting silica gel, know that it does happen and by all indications, you, your child, or pet will be OK. Last medically reviewed on February 13, 2020, Silicon dioxide (SiO2), also known as silica, is a natural compound made of two of the earths most abundant materials: silicon (Si) and oxygen (O2), Choking occurs when an object, a piece of food, or a liquid blocks a persons throat. The mineral is classified as a desiccant, which means it has a high concentration of silicon. While we provide information resources and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. All of these items should be kept away from your pets reach at all times. . What Happens If My Dog Eats Deoxidizer? - Your Pet Shop These include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and loss of appetite. A package from inside a medicine bottles may have absorbed some medication, which may be toxic. If your dog ingests silica bead packets, monitor him for signs of intestinal obstruction. As a result, the lungs ability to take in oxygen is reduced, leading to respiratory failure. 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. Silicon dioxide dries out anything around them. 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. When I first started writing on Dog Lovers Digest back in 2009, I really had no idea what I was getting into. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. What happens if you eat the freshness packet in beef jerky? If you think that your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately. They are magnetic, which is how you can tell them apart from dyed silica and other types of oxygen absorbers. Packets Are Toxic To Dogs | Pet Poison Helpline What Happens If You Eat The Do Not Eat Packet In Beef Jerky. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Its also wise to make sure your feline and canine friends steer clear of silica gel packets. These small pods contain carbon, sodium chloride, and iron powder. Because silica gel does not break down in the body, it is not recommended to eat packets containing it. If the product is labeled silica or if the contents of the package are white/clear beads, the owner can monitor at home and no treatments are needed. But don't stop there subscribe to our social and newsletter below to keep exploring the jerky universe! A: The cylinder can cause a foreign body obstruction in small dogs and can damage the oral cavity when chewed. 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. These cookies do not store any personal information. Vacuum Packaging. It is an ingredient found in cat litter and is commonly used. If your dog exhibits signs of mild dehydration, your veterinarian will most likely order you to bring him to the veterinarian. These include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and loss of appetite. Water is removed from the air through the removal of silica gel as a desiccant. Beef jerky contains a few potentially harmful ingredients, some of which are not limited to: If you swallow a large amount at the same time, you may vomit or become nauseated. For this reason, manufacturers label them "Do not eat." If a loved one is choking on silica gel, call 911 and . It may seem odd, but beef jerky manufacturers include these packets to help protect their customers health. 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. 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. The Dangers Of Desiccant Silica Gel For Dogs - Ask Pet Guru If you or someone you know has accidentally swallowed a desiccant packet or the contents of a desiccant packet, call 911 or seek . The dust from the processing and creation of silica is irritating to the skin, respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract. Check what youre pouring out before feeding it directly to your dog. But while silica gel performed well, the sponge left out in the open (71F; relative humidity of 40%) lost the most amount of water in the tests. if your dog is regularly chewing or eating inedible items. 2 It also irritates the gastrointestinal tract and has direct corrosive effects. Silica Gel vs. How much does the dog weigh? When a dog exhibits iron poisoning symptoms, it is sometimes mistakenly assumed that he is suffering from severe iron poisoning. Insecticides or pesticides can also be toxic. 5,423 Satisfied Customers. Keep reading to find out everything that you need to know. Silica gel is a desiccant, or drying agent, that manufacturers often place in little packets to keep moisture from damaging certain food and commercial products. Silica gel will either appear as small, clear, round beads or as small, clear rocks. 29 foods you may not know are poisonous to dogs - MSN However, if a cat eats a lot of silica gel, it may suffer from constipation or diarrhea. If ingested by dogs, mild gastrointestinal (GI) signs (an upset stomach) are possible. If any moisture enters a container of beef jerky, the meat can spoil early. Stay on top of dog food recalls here >, Have a question? . Nausea, constipation, diarrhea, or bleeding are some of the side effects that should be investigated. Jessica Peralta has been a journalist for over 20 years and an animal lover all her life. But there are often ways to resolve the issue at home. Clear Acrylic Modern Dog Gates: A Stylish Way to Secure Your Pup at Home, A Female Dogs Ovaries And Uterus Are Removed Through An Incision In Her Abdomen After She Is Spayed, 3 Things To Keep In Mind When Using A Heating Pad In A Dog House, The Cliff House: A Historic Restaurant With A Stunning View, How To Turn A Storage Shed Into A Dog House, To Sweater Or Not To Sweater: That Is The Question, How To Reduce The Amount Of Dog Hair In Your House. If a dog eats a silica packet, the silica can cause an obstruction in the dogs digestive system. My Dog Ate Desiccant: Should I Worry? (Solved & Explained!) This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Will My Dog Be Okay After Eating Silica Gel? Dog-specific foods and treats, like freeze-dried and dehydrated kinds, can have them too. Dr. Tina Wismer, senior director at ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, says if your dog eats a silica packet to monitor him for vomiting and abdominal discomfort. What Happens If You Eat Silica Gel? - Healthline If your dog ingests silica gel, it should be reported to your veterinarian as soon as possible. Silica gel is one of those items that may interest your dog and, believe it or not, it is a relatively common occurrence for dogs to eat silica gel. Stay on top of cat food recalls here >, Have a dog? Theyre high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Our Vet Explains What to Do, How To Tell If a Cat Has a Broken Leg (Vet Answer), My Dog Ate a Toothpick! First, stop them from eating anymore! This article explains the differences between raw and regular honey. 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. friends steer clear of silica gel packets. Although silica gel isnt likely to harm you, this isnt a license to eat a lot of it. There have been reports of people opening the packet and sprinkling it on their food because they think it is a seasoning packet. Learn More About Silica Gel, A Common Pet Toxin | ASPCA If at-home decontamination is appropriate, the pet owner may induce vomiting with hydrogen peroxide and then give 1-3 teaspoons of aluminum or magnesium hydroxide (Alternagel or Milk of Magnesia) to reduce the systemic absorption of iron. If the obstruction is not treated, it can be fatal. Raw or partially cooked food is sealed in a bag then cooked, usually at or near the desired final cooking temperature. Some silica products are mixed with a moisture indicator, these indicators may be toxic in large doses. Does Silica Gel Works in Breast Implants? The chemical inertness of silicate gel is due to its low carbon content. If, however, your dog consumes a large amountof silica, there may be more cause for concern. In some cases, however, manufacturers use cobalt chloride, a toxic substance, to coat silica gel. 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). While your dog may not require any treatment, its never a bad idea to consult someone with some expertise in this area. They have a limited shelf life in that they can only absorb a limited amount of moisture. So by the time youre getting a silica packet, it might have already absorbed all the moisture it can handlemaking it basically useless. This lab test can often be run quickly and inexpensively at a local human hospital. Diarrhea and vomiting are a possibility, too. Sous Vide. This action makes silica packets the ideal solution for keeping beef jerky fresh over long distances and time periods. > Why is it labeled "do not eat"? If your cat eats blue cat litter, he or she may be exposed to a substance that increases his or her cancer risk. Silica cat litter with clumping capabilities can be more problematic; as the little mounds form when wet. If your beloved pet samples some silica, your best course of action is to keep an eye on her. Because the products can smell like food or treats, animals may accidentally ingest the packets. When a dogs color does not return to normal within three seconds, it is dehydrated. She says to call your veterinarian for advice, but you generally dont need to rush into an emergency veterinarian right away. My dog she at one of them absorption packs in beef jerky. Silica gel beads probably wont cause serious problems other thanminor digestive upset. Now if it were to be ingested in a large quanity (such as multiple packets) then there could be greater intestinal problems. Trying on your own to get your pup to vomit is not recommended. The risk of poisoning is highest in dogs weighing less than 15 pounds. If a cat eats silica gel, it will most likely be fine. You should contact your veterinarian with an update if your pets condition and symptoms are worsening, especially if you notice lethargy or that your dog cannot keep food or water down. First ask how much was ingested and if there is any left. Read ourIs Beef Jerky Healthy? In dogs, silica gel is not toxic and is safe to use; most dogs will not notice any additional symptoms after eating the packet. When cobalt chloride is coated in silica gel, nausea and vomiting are more likely. A big dog eating a single packet of silica gel should be fine, a small dog with the same amount could be at risk. Your email address will not be published. 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. Dont throw these away: Silica gel bags. We believe that pets are not just animals but members of the family, and we strive to provide the best possible advice and support for pet lovers. Silica gel is made from silicon dioxide, which is a component naturally found in sand. accidentally cooked an oxygen absorber packet If you vomit repeatedly or cant hold down food, seek immediate medical attention. Example: Yes, I would like to receive emails from Pet Poison Helpline. Youll be the first to find new products, snag offers and discounts, scope reviews and spot blogs. It is placed in products to control the humidity and prevent degradation. Of course, our pets often ignore such things and might eat these packets anyway. , youve undoubtedly noticed a little white packet in the package. Im dedicated to helping people and their dogs build strong relationships based on mutual respect and trust. Those packets, usually labeled DO NOT EAT, probably seem out of place next to your delicious snack. Ingestion of silica gel beads may result in the symptoms of an upset stomach, especially if a large amount is eaten relative to your dogs sizefor instance, if a small dog eats a large packet of silica gel. A: Silica is a hard porous gel that is made synthetically and utilized because of its high affinity for water. While silica gel may have some scary warnings on its label, the gel is nontoxic unless you eat a lot of it. What Happens if You Eat the Packet in Beef Jerky? Oxygen scavenging system containing a natural free radical scavenger and a transition metal. Heres How Much Protein You Need in a Day to Build Muscle, in museum display cases to preserve the contents. Read our article for advice on what to do if your dog eats silica gel. Many packaged products from shoes and electronics to food come with a little packet designed to keep them dry called a silica packet. Stay informed! Cobalt chloride-coated silica gel can cause nausea and vomiting if consumed. Sometimes called the hot dog of the sea, imitation crab is a popular ingredient in dishes like seafood salads, crab cakes or California sushi rolls, Protein is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass but consuming too much can negatively affect your health. I have a deep understanding of canine behavior, and Im always striving to learn more and perfect my techniques. They have to put a disclaimer on the package so children do not eat it and choke on it. While silica gel is usually nontoxic if ingested, some people have choked on it. See additional information. Dog Owners Beware: Pretty Litter Can Be Dangerous To Your Pet If any Pretty Litter is consumed, your dog should be evaluated by a veterinarian. The silica could absorb some of the medication. These granules are not magnetic (as compared to iron). Theres also the risk of aspiration or using the wrong substance to induce vomiting. Avocados, which are grown for human consumption, contain persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. Find out how much fiber you need, where to get it, and the best way to increase your daily intake. All sorts of industries rely on them to perform a simple function keeping moisture away from products. Silica is a desiccant it absorbs moisture to keep items from deteriorating. He might vomit some today if his stomach is really upset. Food and other products must be kept dry by using desiccants, or drying agents, such as silica gel. If your dog ingests silica bead packets, monitor him for signs of intestinal obstruction. Help! I would buy the cheap kind at the gas station, and it always came with a little silica packet inside. While silica exposure can be hazardous, it is not commonly inhaled, according to the CDC. What to do if your pet eats something poisonous. If my dog ate something harmful, should I induce vomiting at home? If you notice any symptoms, you can contact your vet to find out what your next steps, if any, should be. Dr. Martinez says the packets found in food are the ones that a dog would most likely eat. Our team is made up of professional pet trainers, veterinarians, and experienced pet owners who have a wealth of knowledge and experience to share. All of these ingredients are very low in nutrition, making ramen noodles an empty-calorie dish. Gels are frequently more dangerous than sponges because the gel is made up of sponge-like materials. Fortunately, silica is not toxic for dogs, but there are still some risks. You may have wondered whether theyre dangerous or poisonous. If your dog swallowed an oxygen absorber, you should most likely take him to the veterinarian. Effect of Deferasirox on Iron Absorption in a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study in a Human Model of Acute Supratherapeutic Iron Ingestion. Dr. Martinez says that dogs eating silica packets is actually not very common considering how many products have silica gel packets in them. I agree to Pet Poison Helpline's use of cookies on this website. My specialty is helping train difficult breeds that require a more detailed approach, such as German Shepherds and Pit Bulls. Colors of silica gel (usually blue) contain a chemical coating that can be toxic to cats and humans at the same time. There is no danger to your dog from the gel beads because they are non-toxic. blog for more information. Even if it will not break down, it may cause choking if used with the gel or packet. This material is magnetic which allows for quick differentiation between packets containing iron and those containing silica gel or charcoal. Beef jerky for dogs has all of the benefits of beef jerky - lean protein that's good for joint health and easy to store - but doesn't pose as a health risk for your dog. An oxygen absorber is made up of iron and moisture, which act as a moisture activater and oxidizer. If your dog eats large quantities of silica gel this may result in a blockage within the gut. (n.d.). DIY methods are usually much more of an ordeal for your dog than whats done by a professional. The plants wont do any long-term harm to either animal. You know you want to be the de facto snack authority! A Dog Ate An Oxygen Absorber Packet: What Happens Next? Your dog may have some digestive issues like stomach upset and possibly even vomiting and diarrhea. Blockages can quickly become life-threatening, so if you suspect a problem, you should contact your vet, who may need to operate on your dog to save their life. 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. How do you remove oxygen from packaged foods? Teething or playful puppies are likely to seek out and chew on items that are not intended for them, and if they ingest those items, they may be ill. As a result, silicon dioxide, a porous material, is what silica gels are made of. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. Amygdlin, a cyanide-like substance, is found in apple seeds, which are extremely dangerous to most living things. 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. Q: Is it a threat to dogs? Many people hold to the idea that poinsettias are toxic to cats, but what about dogs? It is placed in products to control the humidity and prevent degradation. If your dog has the gel, it should not cause long-term harm. Call your vet if you have concerns about your pets digestive or oral health. The pet should be given supportive care until the serum iron level results are returned. If your dog is not passing feces or struggling to defecate it is advisable to contact your veterinarian urgently. Oxygen absorber packets are typically about 11 in size and are often found in packages of beef jerky, pepperoni, dried fruits, dog jerky treats, etc. Here's what you can try and when to seek. Though silica gel is chemically and biologically inert, the main risk is that packets can potentially cause an obstruction in the intestines if the whole packet is swallowed, especially in small dogs. In moderation, bananas are a great low-calorie treat for dogs. These gel packets are used as desiccants (drying agents) and are frequently labeled with the message Do Not Eat silica Gel. silica gel has the potential to cause gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea, depending on how much it is consumed. Even a trace amount of iron can be extremely dangerous for dogs. An accidental ingestion of silica gel can result in an intoxication, dehydration, and bowel obstruction. What are some risks of consuming silica gel packets? This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website.