My Dog Ate Crab Shells, What Should I Do? Answered!
My Dog Ate Crab Shells, What Should I Do? Answered!
By: Sarah Hodgson
October 26, 2023
- Posted in Can Dogs EatDogs
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Having a dog means dealing with unexpected situations, and one common situation that frequently happens is when they eat something they shouldn't. Crab shells are no exception. In this post, we will explore the potential risks and what happens if a dog eats crab shells.
Let's dive in!
What Is Crab Shell?
Firstly, what are crab shells? Crab shells are the hard outer coverings of crabs that serve as their protective exoskeleton (their shell). They are made primarily of chitin, a tough and fibrous substance. While us humans typically discard crab shells after consuming the meat, our dogs may find them appealing due to their smell or taste.
This is how crab shells look like:
Is It Okay For My Dog To Eat Crab Shells?
To start with dogs should not eat crab shells!!
While crab shells are not toxic to dogs, they should not be fed to dogs or brought anywhere near them. The shells can be difficult for a dog's digestive system to break down, leading to potential issues such as choking hazards and blockages.
Even if your dog only consumes small amounts of crab shells, they can still pose a choking hazard or cause discomfort. Therefore, it is generally best to prevent your dog from eating crab shells altogether.
What Happens to A Dog if They Eat a Crab Shell?
When a dog eats a crab shell, it isn't considered a good situation. The severity of the risks depends on various factors, including the size of the dog, the amount ingested, and the condition of the shells.
- Digestive issues: The fibrous nature of crab shells can lead to digestive problems such as constipation, diarrhea, or upset stomach. These symptoms may occur if the shells create an obstruction in the gastrointestinal tract or irritate the dog's digestive system. The dog's body will try and dispose of the shards and this will lead to stomach upset.
- Choking hazard: If the shells are in large fragments or if your dog tries to swallow a whole shell, they can pose a choking hazard. This is especially true for smaller dogs or those with a tendency to gulp their food without chewing.
- Injuries: Crab shells have sharp edges that can cause lacerations or punctures in the mouth, throat, or digestive tract if swallowed. These injuries can lead to pain, infection, or even more severe complications.
- Shards: Crab shells are easy to break so if your dog decides to take a bite it might break into smaller pieces which will not only be extreme choking hazards but also cause pain due to the sharpness of the shards.
What To Do If Your Dog Ate Crab Shells
If you catch your dog munching on crab shells or suspect they have ingested some, there's not much you can do besides contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.
However, in the meantime you can do the following:
- Assess the situation: Try to determine how many shells your dog has consumed and whether they were whole or in fragments. This information will be helpful when discussing the situation with your veterinarian.
- Contact your veterinarian: It is crucial to seek professional advice tailored to your dog's specific situation. Call your veterinarian and provide them with all the relevant details. They will guide you on the best course of action based on your dog's size, the amount ingested, and any symptoms they may be experiencing.
- Monitor your dog: Keep a close eye on your furry friend for any signs of distress or discomfort. Changes in behavior, appetite, or bowel movements can indicate potential problems. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, contact your veterinarian immediately.
What Not To Do:
- Do not try to induce vomiting as the shell shards on their way back up will cut your dog's throat and cause severe pain.
- Nausea causes dogs to eat grass. So, prevent your dog from eating grass as it will cause him to vomit.
- If he is vomiting we recommend not feeding him any food for the next couple of hours. However, he will dehydrate so water is still necessary.
If you notice any of these symptoms or are concerned about your dog's well-being, it is crucial to consult with your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Signs that your dog may have eaten crab shells
While some dogs may not show any symptoms, others may exhibit the following symptoms:
- Vomiting: If your dog vomits shortly after eating crab shells or experiences repeated episodes of vomiting, it could be a sign that the shells are causing gastrointestinal distress.
- Abdominal pain: Dogs that have ingested crab shells may display signs of abdominal discomfort, such as restlessness, pacing, or a hunched posture.
- Lethargy: A dog that has consumed crab shells may appear unusually tired or lethargic. This can be a result of pain, discomfort, or an underlying issue caused by the shells.
The Bottom Line
So there you have it, while it's not ideal for your dog to eat crab shells, it doesn't necessarily mean they are in immediate danger. However, it's essential to be proactive and take the appropriate steps if you suspect your dog has ingested crab shells.
By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure the health and well-being of your canine companion. So, if your dog ever decides to snack on crab shells, you'll know exactly what to do!
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