What To Do When Dog Eats Cough Drops
When your furry friend gets into something they shouldn’t, it can be a scary and stressful situation. If your dog has eaten cough drops, it’s important to act quickly to ensure their safety and health. In this article, we’ll discuss what to do when your dog eats cough drops and provide some helpful tips to prevent this from happening in the future.
What are Cough Drops?
Cough drops are a common over-the-counter medication used to soothe sore throats and relieve coughing. They typically contain menthol, eucalyptus oil, and other ingredients that help to numb the throat, reduce inflammation, and thin mucus. While cough drops can be safe for humans, they can be harmful to dogs if ingested.
Why are Cough Drops Dangerous for Dogs?
The main ingredient in most cough drops is xylitol, a sugar substitute that is toxic to dogs. Xylitol can cause a rapid insulin release in dogs which leads to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Symptoms of xylitol poisoning in dogs include vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, and liver failure. In severe cases, xylitol poisoning can be fatal.
What to Do When Your Dog Eats Cough Drops
If you suspect that your dog has eaten cough drops containing xylitol, it’s essential to act quickly. Here are some steps you should take:
1. Call Your Veterinarian
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect that your dog has eaten cough drops. Let them know how much was ingested and when it happened. Your vet can provide guidance on whether or not your dog needs medical attention.
2. Monitor Your Dog’s Symptoms
Watch for signs of xylitol poisoning such as vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, and lethargy. If you notice any of these symptoms, take your dog to the vet right away.
3. Induce Vomiting (If Recommended)
Your veterinarian may recommend inducing vomiting to remove any remaining cough drops from your dog’s stomach. However, this should only be done under the guidance of a vet as it can be dangerous if done incorrectly.
4. Provide Supportive Care
If your dog is experiencing symptoms of xylitol poisoning, your vet may provide supportive care such as IV fluids and medications to manage their symptoms.
Preventing Your Dog from Eating Cough Drops
The best way to prevent your dog from eating cough drops is to keep them out of reach. Here are some tips to help prevent accidental ingestion:
1. Store Cough Drops Safely
Keep cough drops in a secure location that is out of reach of pets. This includes purses, backpacks, and pockets.
2. Read Labels Carefully
Read the labels on all medications before giving them to your pet. If you’re unsure if a product contains xylitol, call your veterinarian or the manufacturer for clarification.
3. Educate Family Members and Guests
Let family members and guests know about the dangers of xylitol and remind them to keep all medications out of reach of pets.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if your dog eats cough drops containing xylitol, it’s essential to act quickly by contacting your veterinarian and monitoring their symptoms. Preventing accidental ingestion is key by storing cough drops safely, reading labels carefully, and educating others about the risks. Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to keeping our furry friends safe and healthy!
