Oxygen absorbers are commonly used in packaging to preserve food items by preventing oxidation and maintaining freshness. While generally safe for humans, these small packets can pose a significant risk to pets, particularly dogs, if ingested. This article will delve into the potential dangers of oxygen absorbers for pets, exploring the associated risks, symptoms of poisoning, and essential preventive measures.
Understanding Oxygen Absorbers:
Oxygen absorbers are small packets containing iron powder and other components that react with oxygen, effectively removing it from the surrounding environment. This process prevents oxidation, which can cause food spoilage and rancidity. These packets are commonly found in various packaged foods, including jerky treats, dried fruits, and even some medications.
Potential Dangers for Pets:
While oxygen absorbers are not inherently toxic, the iron powder they contain can be harmful to pets, especially dogs. When ingested, the iron can cause a potentially life-threatening condition known as iron poisoning. The severity of poisoning depends on the size of the dog, the amount of iron ingested, and the individual’s susceptibility.
Symptoms of Iron Poisoning:
Early signs of iron poisoning in dogs may include vomiting, which may contain blood, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. As the poisoning progresses, more severe symptoms can develop, including shock, organ failure, and even death.
Preventive Measures:
To protect your pet from the potential dangers of oxygen absorbers, it is crucial to take the following preventive measures:
- Keep all pet food and treats out of reach: Ensure that all pet food and treats, including those containing oxygen absorbers, are stored in a secure location inaccessible to your pet.
- Inspect packaging carefully: Before giving your pet any treats or food, carefully inspect the packaging for the presence of oxygen absorbers. If you find any, remove them and dispose of them safely.
- Monitor your pet closely: While enjoying treats, keep a close eye on your pet to ensure they do not ingest any foreign objects, including oxygen absorbers.
- Seek immediate veterinary attention: If you suspect your pet has ingested an oxygen absorber, seek immediate veterinary attention. Prompt treatment can significantly improve the chances of a successful recovery.
While oxygen absorbers play a valuable role in preserving food freshness, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks they pose to pets. By taking appropriate preventive measures and seeking prompt veterinary attention in case of ingestion, pet owners can safeguard their furry companions from the dangers of iron poisoning.
Additional Resources:
- Animal Poisons Helpline: https://animalpoisons.com.au/news/oxygen-absorbers
- Pet Poison Helpline: https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/
- American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA): https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/poison-control
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Are oxygen absorbers poisonous to humans?
No, oxygen absorbers are not poisonous to humans. However, ingesting large amounts of iron powder could potentially cause gastrointestinal upset.
2. What should I do if my pet ingests an oxygen absorber?
If you suspect your pet has ingested an oxygen absorber, seek immediate veterinary attention. Prompt treatment can significantly improve the chances of a successful recovery.
3. How can I prevent my pet from ingesting oxygen absorbers?
Keep all pet food and treats out of reach, inspect packaging carefully, and monitor your pet closely while enjoying treats.
4. What are the symptoms of iron poisoning in pets?
Early symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. As the poisoning progresses, more severe symptoms can develop, including shock, organ failure, and even death.
5. Are there any other potential hazards associated with oxygen absorbers?
While the primary concern is iron poisoning, oxygen absorbers can also pose a choking hazard to pets if ingested whole.
6. What are some alternative methods for preserving food freshness?
Alternative methods for preserving food freshness include refrigeration, freezing, vacuum sealing, and using natural preservatives such as salt, sugar, and vinegar.
7. Where can I find more information about oxygen absorbers and pet safety?
The resources listed above provide comprehensive information on oxygen absorbers and pet safety. You can also consult your veterinarian for additional guidance.
8. What are the long-term effects of iron poisoning in pets?
Long-term effects of iron poisoning in pets can vary depending on the severity of the poisoning and the individual’s susceptibility. Some pets may experience ongoing gastrointestinal issues, while others may develop more serious complications such as liver damage or heart problems.
9. How can I dispose of oxygen absorbers safely?
Oxygen absorbers can be disposed of in regular household trash. However, it is essential to ensure they are securely wrapped or sealed to prevent accidental ingestion by pets or children.
10. Are there any specific types of oxygen absorbers that are more dangerous to pets?
All oxygen absorbers containing iron powder pose a potential risk to pets. However, the severity of poisoning can vary depending on the amount of iron present and the individual’s susceptibility.
11. What are some tips for preventing pets from accessing oxygen absorbers?
Store pet food and treats in airtight containers, use childproof latches on cabinets and drawers, and keep all packaging materials out of reach.
12. What is the prognosis for pets that have ingested oxygen absorbers?
The prognosis for pets that have ingested oxygen absorbers depends on the severity of the poisoning and the promptness of treatment. With early intervention, most pets make a full recovery.
13. Are there any specific breeds of dogs that are more susceptible to iron poisoning?
Certain breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Beagles, may be more prone to ingesting foreign objects, including oxygen absorbers.
14. What are some additional tips for keeping pets safe from poisoning?
Keep all household chemicals, medications, and other potentially toxic substances out of reach. Consider using childproof latches on cabinets and drawers. Avoid leaving poisonous plants within reach of pets.
15. What should I do if I suspect my pet has been poisoned?
If you suspect your pet has been poisoned, contact your veterinarian or the nearest animal poison control center immediately. Provide as much information as possible about the suspected poison, including the type, amount, and time of ingestion.
16. Are there any home remedies for iron poisoning in pets?
No, there are no effective home remedies for iron poisoning in pets. Prompt veterinary attention is essential for increasing the chances of a successful recovery.
17. What are some common household items that can be poisonous to pets?
Common household items that can be poisonous to pets include medications, household cleaners, insecticides, antifreeze, and certain plants.
18. How can I educate myself about pet poisoning prevention?
Numerous resources are available to educate yourself about pet poisoning prevention, including websites, books, and brochures. Your veterinarian can also provide valuable guidance.
19. What are some warning signs that my pet may have been poisoned?
Warning signs that your pet may have been poisoned include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, seizures, and tremors.
20. What should I do if I find an oxygen absorber on the floor?
If you find an oxygen absorber on the floor, pick it up immediately and dispose of it safely. Keep it out of reach of pets and children.
Q: What is it? A: To absorb excess oxygen from bags of pre-prepared or dehydrated food items, tiny packets called oxygen absorbers are filled with elemental iron granules. This keeps the food from oxidizing or going bad and maintains its freshness 1. Usually measuring around 1×1”, oxygen absorber packets are frequently discovered in packages containing beef jerky, pepperoni, dried fruits, dog jerky treats, and other similar items. If the oxygen absorber is cracked open, material with a dark brown to rust color is seen. Because of this material’s magnetic properties, packets containing iron and those containing silica gel or charcoal can be quickly distinguished from one another.
Why is it labeled “do not eat”? A: The label “do not eat” indicates that the charcoal is not meant for ingestion.
What makes silica gel designated as “do not eat”? A: Because it is not meant for ingestion, it bears this label. The skin, respiratory system, and gastrointestinal system are all irritated by the dust produced during the silica processing and creation process. People who work in factories or mines and are regularly exposed to silica dust may develop silicosis, a debilitating disease that progresses over time. Fortunately, silica dust is rarely encountered by our furry friends. Certain silica products come combined with moisture indicators, which can be harmful in high concentrations. If a dye is added, the silica gel will turn brilliant orange, blue, pink, or green instead of clear to white.
If the product is marked “silica” or if the package contains white or clear beads, the owner can keep an eye on it at home and doesn’t need any treatments. If the product’s contents are dark, the owner should place a magnet over the black powder; if not, it’s probably made of non-toxic charcoal, which the owner can check at home. Iron may have been consumed, and further action is required if the owner does not have a magnet, the powder is magnetic, or the product was swallowed whole. In comparison to large dogs, the risk of poisoning is higher in dogs weighing less than 15 pounds. In order to lessen the systemic absorption of iron, if at-home decontamination is appropriate, the pet owner may use hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting followed by 1-3 teaspoons of aluminum or magnesium hydroxide (Alternagel or Milk of Magnesia). Alternatively, the pet’s risk and decontamination needs can be easily ascertained with a brief call to Pet Poison Helpline®. Once the pet has vomited, the owner should try to figure out what’s in the package or bring the pet, the product that’s left, the vomit, and any extras to the veterinarian.
What is it? A: White plastic cylinders containing a particular kind of prepared charcoal, resembling activated charcoal used in veterinary hospitals, are found inside bags of prepared foods like dog treats, chews, and jerky. If broken open the small black granules are visible. These granules are not magnetic (as compared to iron).
Did you know that oxygen absorber sachets can be dangerous to your pets? These sachets are typically used to preserve dried food items and may contain varying amounts of iron powder. As oxygen absorber sachets are often found in pet treat bags, calls to the Helpline regarding ingestion of these sachets are not uncommon. When ingested, typically by dogs, iron poisoning may ensue. Whilst serious poisoning is rare, the risk depends on the size of your pet, the quantity ingested and the amount of elemental iron in the mix. Early signs of poisoning can include vomiting which may contain blood, salivation, lack of interest in food and abdominal pain. Poisoned animals may appear to improve, but then develop progressive multi-organ failure which can be life-threatening.
Treat packets should be kept well out of your pet’s reach. If your cat or dog has consumed any portion of an oxygen absorber sachet, call the Animal Poisons Helpline at 1300 869 738 (Australia) or 0800 869 738 (New Zealand) for assistance. We can evaluate your pet’s exposure to see if there is a chance of poisoning and whether they need to see a veterinarian right away. Join our mailing list here to receive updates on pet poisoning straight to your inbox.