Can Toilet Paper Hurt My Dog?

Toilet paper is a common household item that is often used to clean up after dogs. However, many people are unaware that toilet paper can actually be harmful to dogs if ingested. In this blog post, we will explore the potential dangers of toilet paper to dogs and provide tips on how to prevent your dog from eating it.

What are the Dangers of Toilet Paper to Dogs?

Toilet paper is made from cellulose, which is a type of plant fiber. Cellulose is not digestible by dogs, and can cause a number of problems if ingested, including:

• Gastrointestinal upset: Toilet paper can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain in dogs.
• Obstruction: If a dog eats a large amount of toilet paper, it can cause an obstruction in the digestive tract. This can be a life-threatening condition that requires surgery to correct.
• Perforation: In severe cases, toilet paper can perforate the digestive tract, leading to peritonitis. This is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.

Why Do Dogs Eat Toilet Paper?

There are a number of reasons why dogs might eat toilet paper, including:

• Boredom: Dogs who are bored may eat toilet paper as a way to occupy themselves.
• Hunger: Dogs who are hungry may eat toilet paper as a way to satisfy their hunger.
• Pica: Pica is a condition that causes dogs to eat non-food items. Toilet paper is a common object that dogs with pica may eat.

How to Prevent Your Dog from Eating Toilet Paper

There are a number of things you can do to prevent your dog from eating toilet paper, including:

• Keep toilet paper out of reach: The best way to prevent your dog from eating toilet paper is to keep it out of reach. Store toilet paper in a closed cabinet or on a high shelf.
• Supervise your dog: If you cannot keep toilet paper out of reach, supervise your dog when they are in areas where toilet paper is present.
• Provide your dog with plenty of toys: Dogs who are bored are more likely to eat toilet paper. Provide your dog with plenty of toys to keep them occupied.
• Feed your dog a healthy diet: Dogs who are hungry are more likely to eat toilet paper. Feed your dog a healthy diet that meets their nutritional needs.
• Seek professional help: If your dog has pica, it is important to seek professional help. A veterinarian can help you determine the underlying cause of your dog’s pica and recommend ways to treat it.

Takeaways

Toilet paper can be harmful to dogs if ingested. By following the tips in this blog post, you can help prevent your dog from eating toilet paper and protect them from the potential dangers associated with it.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Can a small amount of toilet paper hurt my dog?
A: Yes, even a small amount of toilet paper can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs.

Q: What should I do if my dog eats toilet paper?
A: If your dog eats toilet paper, monitor them closely for signs of gastrointestinal upset. If your dog shows any signs of distress, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Q: Is there anything I can give my dog to help them pass toilet paper?
A: No, there is nothing you can give your dog to help them pass toilet paper. If your dog eats toilet paper, the best thing to do is to monitor them closely and contact your veterinarian if they show any signs of distress.

Q: How long does it take for toilet paper to pass through a dog’s digestive system?
A: Toilet paper typically takes 12-24 hours to pass through a dog’s digestive system. However, this can vary depending on the size of the dog and the amount of toilet paper that was ingested.

Q: Can toilet paper cause my dog to choke?
A: Yes, toilet paper can cause a dog to choke if it is not chewed properly. If your dog starts to choke on toilet paper, remove the toilet paper from their mouth and contact your veterinarian immediately.