puppy eats plastic

My puppy 4 months old ate a very small pen cap. What should I do.

Should I be worried?




Hi
Puppies do have a tendency to eat just about anything they can put in their mouths, and generally this doesn't cause problems.

A tiny, plastic pen cap should pass through his intestines and 'out the other end' okay, however if it had sharp edges/pieces, if your puppy is a small/tiny breed, or if it gets caught up somewhere inside him it could lead to trouble.

I would suggest that you watch your puppys' bowel movements over the next 24 hours or so and keep your eyes open for the pen top reappearing. Also, watch your puppy for signs of an intestinal blockage.

These signs could include vomiting, straining to poop but being unable to eliminate, loss of appetite, lethargy, a distended/swollen belly, excessive panting or whining, or any other signs of distress.

If you notice any of these, your pup's behavior changes from 'normal' in any way, or he seems sick or in pain, call your veterinarian (or a 24 hour emergency pet clinic) right away. An intestinal blockage is an emergency.

Best of luck, hope the pen top finds it way back out again without causing him any difficulties!