What Happens If A Dog Swallows A Battery: Important Facts To Know

Have you ever wondered about the potential consequences when your dog accidentally ingests a disc-shaped or button battery? When a dog swallows such batteries, they pose a serious risk as they can enable an electric current to flow through the tissues in the gastrointestinal tract. This can lead to a condition known as current-induced necrosis, which has the potential to cause perforation in various parts of the digestive system, including the mouth, esophagus, stomach, or small intestine. This alarming situation can result in severe harm to your furry friend, and it’s crucial to act swiftly if you suspect your dog has ingested a battery. Please note that this information is as of September 30, 2022, and for the most up-to-date guidance, consult a veterinarian immediately.

Concerns about whether a dog will pass a swallowed battery depend on several factors. Firstly, if the battery remains intact and is situated in the stomach, the recommended course of action differs significantly. In most cases, batteries located in the stomach will typically pass through the digestive system without causing any problems. To assist this natural process, treatment involves feeding the dog a high-fiber diet and carefully monitoring their stool for the next 3-4 days to ensure the battery safely exits their system. It’s crucial to closely follow these steps to safeguard your dog’s health when dealing with a swallowed battery.

How harmful can batteries be to dogs? Batteries pose significant dangers not only to children but also to dogs. Even a single 3-volt battery can cause severe necrosis in the gastrointestinal tract or esophagus within just 15 to 30 minutes of contact. This rapid onset of harm underscores the urgency of keeping batteries out of reach of both kids and pets. This information is crucial for understanding the potential risks batteries can pose to our furry companions. (Source: April 28, 2014)