When you’re a pet parent you get used to all the weird things your pet seems to find delicious, so it might not come as a surprise that some dogs develop a taste for vaseline.
If your dog ate vaseline, you should call your veterinary and inform him about it.
Even though vaseline isn’t particularly harmful to dogs and maybe it will just cause some stomach aches,sometimes large ingestions can turn into a life-threatening situation.
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What Should You Do If Your Dog Ate Vaseline?
If your dog eats vaseline, also called petroleum jelly, taking the cream away from them should be the first step.
Dogs are very sensitive to changes in their diet, therefore it would be wise to keep an eye out for any symptoms of discomfort, like tummy ache or vomiting.
Even if ingesting small quantities of vaseline should be harmless, vaseline doesn’t get digested at all.
So it will come out as it went in and it might cause some troubles along the way.
What you should not do if your dog ate vaseline.
Do not try to induce vomiting in your dog.
Inducing vomiting is usually the first thing most pet parents consider when their dog ingests something they shouldn’t.
But it’s actually a very serious and dangerous procedure that should be done only when strictly necessary.
When in doubt, it would be wise to call your veterinarian and listen to their advice.
Even though ingesting vaseline isn’t usually dangerous, your dog’s condition is one of a kind and only someone who knows their medical history can assert whether your pet is safe or not.
Is Vaseline Safe For Dogs?
Vaseline is not toxic for dogs, but it goes without saying that if your dog ate a jar of vaseline there will be consequences.
Vaseline on dogs is mostly used to treat wounds or dry skin. It’s not a product that will cause an immediate reaction or put your dog’s life in danger when used properly.
Some veterinarians actually use vaseline to help push a foreign object through a dog’s digestive system, but that does not mean you should try to replicate this procedure at home.
Usage of vaseline as a lubricant is not always the best course of action to take, because in the case of sharp objects it might actually cause lacerations in the intestines.
It’s important to remember that vaseline is an industrial product deriving from oil refining, which is not something you want your dog to eat.
A long exposition or repeated ingestion of vaseline could actually turn out really dangerous.
Depending on your dog age, size, and health conditions, there might be symptoms or consequences impossible to predict, so consulting your local professional is always a good idea.
What Happens If a Dog Eats Vaseline?
If your dog ate petroleum jelly, they are likely to feel sick.
As mentioned before vaseline doesn’t get digested by your dog and it will pass through their system as it is, probably only lubricating your dog’s digestive tract and nothing more if they’re lucky.
Depending on the quantity ingested, there may be bigger or smaller consequences, and they’re all usually related to gastrointestinal problems.
Diarrhea
The biggest concern should be diarrhea, which is also the most common symptom related to vaseline ingestion in dogs.
You can expect a few messy days after your dog ate vaseline, as you will have to clean up after them many times.
Diarrhea can get dangerous because it causes severe dehydration, so your dog will need to be provided with enough water to keep the balance.
However, when dealing with gastrointestinal problems, water might increase the sense of nausea and also make diarrhea worse.
For all these reasons, when it comes to managing the aftermath of the ingestion of vaseline for dogs, it would be a good idea to discuss with your veterinarian how to proceed.
Make sure to describe the amount of vaseline ingested and all related symptoms.
They might advise you to reducethe food intake of your dog for a couple of days, in order to help the vaseline pass through faster.
Don’t take any initiative regarding your dog’s diet unless you’ve consulted a professional first.
Dogs have very sensitive stomachs that don’t easily adapt to sudden changes in diet.
Most cases of vaseline ingestion won’t need a medical examination or any expensive procedures, but anything out of the ordinary should nonetheless be reported to your veterinary.
Aspiration pneumonia
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) warns about some rare but dangerous side-effects of vaseline ingestion.
If your dog ingests a large quantity of vaseline, it is possible that they might inhale it from inside their intestines, especially if it comes up during vomiting.
Vaseline could end up in your dog’s lungs and cause aspiration pneumonia.
Dogs affected by this disease develop a powerful infection of the lungs, which gets inflamed.
A large number of fluids will accumulate in the lower respiratory tract and will make it difficult for your dog to breathe properly.
They will require an emergency visit, as aspiration pneumonia can turn out fatal.
Severe symptoms of aspiration pneumonia include:
- Blue gums
- Wet or heavy breathing
- Fever
- Coughing
- Lethargy or weakness
The diagnosis of this disease is only possible through a careful medical examination by the veterinarian.
If you notice any of these symptoms, bring your dog to an emergency clinic as soon as possible.
How To Prevent Your Dog From Eating Vaseline Again
It is not uncommon to use vaseline for dog treatments and some dogs might develop an interest in the cream and start to lick it off their skin.
To prevent them from doing so, consider wrapping the interesting part in some bandages or change the product to one that is less attractive to them.
Vaseline, as well as any other product that can be harmful to your pets, should be stored away from your dog and possibly somewhere they can’t ever reach.
Cayenne pepper
One smart trick to prevent your dog from eating vaseline is to mix it with cayenne pepper.
Of course, this should not be done when you’re applying vaseline on your dog’s skin, but only to stop them from licking vaseline off something else.
It is particularly useful with dogs that have chewing tendencies and destructive behavior.
Applying a bit of vaseline on the wall or on the legs of a chair will serve as a deterrent and keep your dog away from it.
Can Dogs Eat Vaseline?
Dogs should not eat vaseline, because it’s an industrial product that should have nothing to do with their diet.
Small amounts of vaseline could cause some discomfort for your dog like diarrhea, and as a consequence some troubles for you as well.
While in the case of large ingestion your dog might be in a life-threatening situation.
So if you discover that your dog swallowed vaseline it’s better to stay on the safe side andcall your veterinarian to discuss the matter.
For all of these reasons, remember to always play safe and keep vaseline away from your dog.
Other articles you may also like:
- Can German Shepherds Eat Peanut Butter?
- My Dog Ate A Stick Of Butter: What Should I Do Now?
- What Should You Do if Your Dog Ate Toothpaste?
FAQs
My Dog Ate Vaseline: What Should I Do Now? ›
Although ingesting Vaseline isn't usually dangerous, it is advisable to contact your vet for advice. Your veterinarian will be able to assess your pet's condition and determine what course of action is necessary.
Can dogs digest Vaseline? ›Technically no, vaseline is not toxic to your dog. It is also usually not the best choice as your dog can lick it off their skin or paws. If your pup ingests enough they might get an upset stomach, which can lead to vomiting or diarrhea if they ingest enough.
Is Vaseline harmful if ingested? ›Is Petroleum Jelly Safe to be ingested? Another myth surrounding petroleum jelly is that it is toxic. In fact, Vaseline® Jelly meets FDA requirements for being safe for human consumption.
What happens if a dog eats Vaseline chapstick? ›Some chapsticks contain ingredients that can be toxic to dogs. A dog that has swallowed chapstick may experience adverse reactions like vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and lethargy. This is especially true if the chapstick contains xylitol or dangerous essential oils.
Can I give my dog Vaseline for a blockage? ›Pet parents and even vets have been known to give a dog vaseline for constipation. This is a tough one because, yes, it technically does work. The issue is that there is no specific dosage that we know is safe.
Are petroleum products toxic to dogs? ›Petroleum products contain hydrocarbons that are toxic to dogs as well as humans. Exposure to large amounts causes serious illness and even death. Petroleum hydrocarbon poisoning in dogs can take place through ingestion, inhalation, or direct skin contact.
What is Vaseline used for in dogs? ›One of the most common places that pet owners use Vaseline is on their dog's nose. Apply a thin layer of Vaseline to your dog's nose during the winter months to protect against dryness and cracking.
What are the dangers of ingesting petroleum? ›After ingestion of even a very small amount of liquid hydrocarbon, patients initially cough, choke, and may vomit. Young children may have cyanosis, hold their breath, and cough persistently. Older children and adults may report burning in the stomach. Aspiration pneumonitis.
What are the side effects of using Vaseline? ›Excessive and improper usage of petroleum jelly can result in certain side effects such as clogged pores, pneumonia, allergies, and infections. You need to avoid using petroleum jelly if you have acne-prone, oily, or combination skin.
Is Vaseline OK for dogs paws? ›Paw balm or petroleum jelly-based products keep your dog's paws safe and moisturized. If boots don't feel right for your best friend, try Vaseline or a paw balm such as Musher's Secret.
Is Vaseline the same thing as petroleum jelly? ›
Petroleum jelly is made from a blend of natural waxes and mineral oils. People often refer in general to petroleum jelly as “Vaseline®”, but the real Vaseline® petroleum jelly is different. The real Vaseline® petroleum jelly is triple purified to remove impurities. It is gentle enough to be used on sensitive skin.
Is Vaseline Edible? ›Poisonous Ingredient. Petroleum jelly (petrolatum) can be harmful if someone swallows it or it gets in the eyes.
What can I give my dog to help him pass something? ›Feed a bulky meal of dry food to cushion stones or other heavy objects, and help them move on out. Food also turns on the digestive juices, which can help soften wads of rawhide treats, so they pass more readily.
What can you give a dog to help pass an obstruction? ›However, there are some instances where giving your dog a small amount of coconut oil may be able to help them pass the obstruction before you're able to get to the vet. Coconut oil works to help an obstruction in two ways. First, it lubricates the digestive tract which can help the item pass through more easily.
How soon will a dog show signs of a blockage? ›The symptoms of an intestinal blockage generally occur within 24 hours after swallowing the problematic item. However, depending on where the item lodges, the time frame may vary—the earlier in the system the item is lodged, the sooner symptoms will emerge.
What are the most toxic substances for dogs? ›- Onions.
- Salt.
- Tobacco products (including e-cigarettes and their refills)
- Xylitol (a sweetener found in products such as some sugar-free chewing gum, sugar-free candy, cough syrup, mouthwash, and toothpaste)
- Yeast products (like raw bread dough)
Thankfully, olive oil is okay for dogs to eat in small quantities. In fact, it can even be beneficial for them. Regular consumption of olive oil can encourage healthy skin and help give your dog a lustrous coat.
How does petroleum affect animals? ›The toxic effects of inhaling vapors and ingesting oil when grooming or feeding can make animals sick. Oil can also coat an animal's fur or feathers, leading to hypothermia and a loss of buoyancy. Preventing spills is the best way to protect wildlife from oil spills.
Can you eat Vaseline for constipation? ›If swallowed in small amounts, the petroleum jelly can act as a laxative and cause soft or loose stools. There is also a risk for choking if a large amount is put in the mouth and incorrectly swallowed.
Does Vaseline stop dogs itching? ›Vaseline is touted as a super-moisturizing solution to dry skin and rashes. But while the application of Vaseline may feel soothing, there's no evidence that the jelly actually heals skin in any way. In fact, it may be drying out your dog's pores by sealing them off from the air.
Can I put Vaseline on my dogs dry ears? ›
Vaseline is a synthetic, petroleum-based product formulated for human use only. More importantly, it does not actually moisturize dry skin! In fact, petroleum jelly can actually encourage infection by clogging pores. Vaseline is not a solution for dry dog ears.
What are five harmful effects of petroleum? ›Adverse health effects can include skin irritation, eye irritation, dizziness, headache, nausea and, and in extreme cases, death (2). Because petroleum is widely used, unintentional acute releases can occur almost anywhere.
What is the goal for treating the ingestion of toxins? ›Your goal is to rapidly remove as much poison as possible from the gastrointestinal tract.
What are the symptoms of petroleum distillates poisoning? ›causing headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, confusion, and loss of balance and coordination. Higher levels may cause coma and death.
What's in Vaseline? ›Vaseline® Blue Seal Original Petroleum Jelly is made with 100% pure petroleum jelly,… triple-purified to lock in moisture for healing and protection.
What is Vaseline made of? ›Vaseline® Jelly is made of 100% pure petroleum jelly which is a blend of mineral oils and waxes. Discovered by Robert Chesebrough in 1859, Vaseline® Jelly has had a long and dynamic history of keeping skin protected which you can read about.
What are the ingredients in Vaseline? ›Composition : Water (aqua), Glycerin, Stearic Acid, Isopropyl Palmitate, Glycol Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Mineral Oil, Dimethicone, Petrolatum, Glyceryl Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, Cetyl Alcohol, Methylparaben, Acrylates/c10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Triethanolamine, Propylparaben, Disodium EDTA, Stearamide Amp, ...
Is Vaseline banned in Europe? ›Consumers had no way of knowing if the products containing petroleum were low in carcinogenic PAHs so the EU's “Dangerous Substances Directive” stepped in and banned all products containing petrolatum, aka petroleum jelly unless it was refined properly to remove toxic carcinogens and could prove the refining history.
Where should you not use Vaseline? ›On acne-prone skin
“Petroleum should be avoided in people with oily, acne-prone skin, as it can worsen or cause the formation of clogged pores,” says Dr. Parcells. Adding more oil to the oil on your skin can compound acne. Instead, talk to your dermatologist about moisturizers designed for your skin type.
Some bacteria, such as staphylococci, can survive and even thrive in petroleum jelly. These bacteria can cause skin infections if introduced to a wound, making it important to maintain proper hygiene when using petroleum jelly. Additionally, bacteria can form a slimy biofilm on the surface of the petroleum jelly.
Why is my dog chewing his paws? ›
In most cases, this is normal behavior—dogs bite their paws to clean them, remove debris they may have picked up outside, scratch a little itch, or even out of boredom.
Can I put Vaseline on my dog for fleas? ›No, you should not use Vaseline on your dog. Vaseline is an oil-based product and can be irritating to the skin if applied directly or can even cause an allergic reaction in some dogs.
Why does my dog lick her paws all the time? ›As with other dog behaviors, there can be several reasons that lead dogs to lick or chew their paws. These include injuries; skin problems; environmental, parasite, or food allergies; and boredom or anxiety.
Is Vaseline better than coconut oil? ›Coconut Oil's ability to penetrate the skin seamlessly makes it equally as effective as Petroleum Jelly when treating dryness. However, Coconut Oil is gentler on the skin, the hair, and the environment.
Is Neosporin better than Vaseline? ›Myth #3: A topical antibiotic cream improves wound healing.
A study comparing white petroleum ointments (such as Vaseline or Aquaphor) with an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment (such as Polysporin, Neosporin or Bacitracin) showed no significant difference in wound infection rate.
Vaseline locks in any moisture on your face without adding other ingredients that might irritate your skin. A layer of Vaseline applied before you sleep can help restore your face's natural level of moisture and softness.
Does Vaseline help hair grow? ›There's no scientific evidence to support the popular claim that Vaseline makes your hair grow faster. It might protect your hair against breakage and dryness, but it won't encourage your hair to grow at a faster rate.
Is Vaseline good for your Eyelashes? ›What Does Vaseline Do for Your Eyelashes? Although Vaseline does not make your eyelashes grow longer, it can help to keep your lashes hydrated by locking in moisture and, in turn, preventing lash breakage. Vaseline is very gentle and when applied to your eyelid can often make your lashes appear thicker.
Is it OK to put Vaseline on your lips? ›The secret to dealing with dry, sore, chapped lips is to find a way to lock in moisture and protect the lips from the cold, dry air. Vaseline® Healing Jelly is an excellent choice as it forms a protective layer on the lips and penetrates deep down to rehydrate the skin and speed up the its natural renewal process.
How do you clear a dog's impaction? ›The first step is to loosen or remove the impacted, hardened fecal matter. Removal may be accomplished through the use of one or a combination of therapies, including enemas, manual removal, and medications.
How long does it take something to pass through a dog? ›
When something is ingested by your dog, it usually takes between 10-24 hours to move through the entire digestive tract. Some objects, however, can take much longer – even months! Sometimes, objects are too big to progress through the digestive tract, and when this is the case, they cause an obstruction.
Can a dog's bowel obstruction clear on its own? ›Some intestinal blockages will pass on their own and will not require surgery or endoscopy. These dogs may still need supportive care to recover fully. Your vet will likely give your dog fluids for rehydration and medications to soothe the GI tract and prevent infection.
Can bread help a dog pass an obstruction? ›It pads indigestible foreign objects
Bread binds or pads swallowed foreign objects like sharp bits of bone – or indigestible objects – enabling them to pass through the digestive tract. This is not true for all foreign objects or shards of bone, but bread can help your dog digest small pieces.
While Vaseline is technically non-toxic for dogs, it does not mean it is 100% safe. If over-ingested (and they will lick) it can cause an upset stomach, which can lead to vomiting or diarrhoea. Vaseline forms a barrier over your dog's skin trapping in toxins, dirt and bacteria.
Will a dog still eat if they have an obstruction? ›We usually don't consider surgery unless a pet is showing signs that there is a problem. The symptoms of intestinal obstruction are: not eating, vomiting frequently, acting painful and lethargic, and not passing any stool.
What are the warning signs of a bowel obstruction in dogs? ›- Vomiting.
- Loss of appetite.
- Weakness.
- Nausea.
- Diarrhea.
- Straining or unable to poop.
Symptoms of Bowel Obstructions in Dogs
Straining or unable to poop. Weakness. Loss of appetite. Diarrhea.
- Severe pain in your belly.
- Severe cramping sensations in your belly.
- Throwing up.
- Feelings of fullness or swelling in your belly.
- Loud sounds from your belly.
- Feeling gassy, but being unable to pass gas.
- Constipation (being unable to pass stool)
If your dog's ears are often bitten by flies, apply a thin coating of petroleum jelly to the area. Squirt a small amount of petroleum jelly into your hand and rub it into both sides of your dog's ears. This will prevent flies from landing there again and give your dog's wounds time to heal.
Can you put Vaseline on dogs paws in the summer? ›Keep a dog's paws well moisturized with Vaseline® or a special paw pad balm or cream, like Musher's Secret®. Moisturizing the dog's paw pads will prevent cracking, peeling and minor pad cuts. These injuries will cause the dog's pads to become more sensitive once healing is complete, so preventing injury is key.
What can I give my dog to help pass a foreign object? ›
Feed a bulky meal of dry food to cushion stones or other heavy objects, and help them move on out. Food also turns on the digestive juices, which can help soften wads of rawhide treats, so they pass more readily.
Is it safe for dogs to eat olive oil? ›The resounding answer is YES, olive oil offers many benefits for dogs. Similar to us, dogs also suffer from dry, flaky skin. Olive oil contains phytonutrients, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids that help keep your dog's skin moisturized and well-nourished.
How do you make a dog pass a blockage? ›If your dog is dehydrated, your vet will give them IV fluids. Beyond rehydrating, fluids can also encourage the GI tract to push the blockage down through the intestines and out of your dog's body. Some foreign objects, given time, can pass on their own.
Can I put coconut oil on my dog? ›How to use coconut oil on dogs. Coconut oil is generally safe for dogs to eat in small amounts or have applied to their skin or fur. When it comes to selecting a brand, virgin coconut oil is best, as most of coconut oil's benefits have been observed with this type.
Is vinegar good for dog flies? ›Apple cider vinegar's slightly acidic pH level creates an inhospitable environment for fleas. Mix six cups of ACV with four cups of water (use a 6:4 ratio), add a pinch of salt, and spray the mixture on your dog's coat and underbelly, making sure to avoid their eyes and any wounds they may have.
What breaks down dog ear wax? ›If you want to save yourself some time (there's cuddling to do, after all), go with the choice that groomers and veterinarians trust: Oxyfresh Pet Ear Cleaner.
Can you put Vicks VapoRub in dogs ears? ›Toxicity to pets
Examples of some common trade names containing camphor include Carmex, Tiger Balm, Vicks VapoRub, Campho-Phenique, etc. Camphor is readily absorbed across the skin, and should never be applied to dogs or cats due to risks for poisoning.
If your pooch got into a scrape, chances are good that you can use a small amount of Neosporin to help prevent infection in the wound. Superficial injuries, such as scrapes, abrasions, and small cuts, may benefit from this trifecta of a topical antibiotic. However, be cautious of usage on the nose.
Is Vaseline good for hot spots on dogs? ›If you aren't able to get to the vet right away, there are a few things you can do at home to help heal hot spots. Human medications such as Neosporin, hydrocortisone, and Vaseline should NOT be used. Topical creams and ointments tend to cause dogs to lick the area even more, so they should be avoided if possible.