You probably already know that dogs and puppies enjoy chewing on things if you’ve spent much time around them. Canines have this urge to chew; occasionally they might yearn for a bite of your favorite shoes or pillows, while other times they’re content to gnaw on trash, branches, and other tasty objects. However, some canines appear to favor chewing cardboard.
We’ll look at these and other inquiries on why some dogs have a fondness for paper and cardboard, including: Do you have a dog that loves to chew on cardboard? Can it be harmful to your dog?
Separation Anxiety
Many dogs who experience separation anxiety display undesirable behaviors like eating cardboard, tearing up paper, and destroying household items.
If your dog spends a lot of time alone at home, they might start to feel anxious and start looking for a way to relax.
Imagine that you discover that your dog has started to act destructively, such as by destroying bathroom doors or eating cardboard or other non-food items. If so, you should determine whether they have developed anxiety or if they are experiencing any other health problems.
It’s not advised for dogs to eat cardboard boxes, even though it can be a great way to keep them occupied.
Cardboard is non-toxic, so if your dog ate a small amount of it, there shouldn’t be any issues. But if they ate a lot, you should consult your veterinarian because it might cause their digestive tract to become obstructed.
Cardboard is not poisonous, but it is difficult for your dog to digest. Therefore, there is a chance that your dog could develop an intestinal blockage if they have consumed a lot of cardboard.
Watch out for the following signs: lethargy, burping, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and straining to poop.
Take your dog to the veterinarian as soon as you can if you notice that they are present because your pet may need treatment.
The course of treatment really depends on how much cardboard your dog has consumed. It can include stool softeners or, in severe cases, surgery.
In an effort to hasten the process, you can also give your dog unsweetened pumpkin, but you should keep an eye on their stools to ensure that they are passing the cardboard without any problems.
Pica is a term used to describe dogs who have developed an obsession with eating things they shouldn’t. Pica includes eating items like dirt, rocks, and plastic.
Pica is defined as “the persistent chewing and consumption of non-nutritive substances that provide no physical benefit to the animal” by the Clinical Animal Behavior Service at UC Davis. ”.
Toilet paper, paper towels, a toilet paper roll, and other cardboard items fall under this category.
Although most dogs can nibble on cardboard for extended periods of time without experiencing any negative effects, if they are eating a lot of it, cardboard chewing can result in a number of different health issues and medical conditions over time.
The short answer is probably not if you are concerned about whether cardboard will be harmful to your dog. The longer answer, however, is that most cardboard is not digestible and, in large quantities, is very bad for your dog, even though it is not toxic.
You should seek advice from a qualified veterinarian on how to handle the situation if you discover that your dog has consumed a significant amount of cardboard and is acting negatively. Take your dog to your neighborhood vet as soon as possible if they begin to exhibit symptoms of an intestinal blockage.
If you don’t treat your pet’s blockage, it could become fatal.
Is Cardboard Toxic To Dogs?
No, cardboard is not usually toxic to dogs. When consumed in moderation, it is unlikely to cause any issues for your pet. After consuming a small amount of cardboard or paper, the majority of dogs will be fine.
Dogs can’t digest cardboard but, in most cases, they should be able to pass it without any issues. However, larger quantities of cardboard could cause an obstruction. The cardboard isn’t broken down by the normal process of digestion, so large pieces could become stuck together and cause a blockage in your dog’s stomach or guts. This blockage will require urgent veterinary attention.
Additionally, you should be aware of any materials the cardboard may have held prior to being chewed up. Some packaging may include items that are harmful to dogs, like chocolate, prescription drugs, or raisins. Call your veterinarian right away if your dog ate anything else that could be dangerous in addition to the cardboard.
How to Stop Dogs From Eating Cardboard
Although many dogs will consume cardboard simply out of boredom, it can also signify a more serious problem.
Although you should try to keep your dog away from these items whenever possible, occasionally dogs will manage to get hold of and consume toilet paper rolls. Dogs chew anything they can get their mouths on!.
FAQ
Is it OK if my dog eats some cardboard?
Your dog eating a small amount of cardboard while playing is probably not going to be a big deal. However, if your dog has consumed a significant amount of cardboard, you should consult a veterinarian as it may result in digestive system obstruction problems for your pet.
Will dogs poop out cardboard?
After consuming a small amount of cardboard or paper, the majority of dogs will be fine. Although dogs cannot digest cardboard, they should generally be able to pass it without any problems. However, larger quantities of cardboard could cause an obstruction.
How can I help my dog pass cardboard?
You can clearly see the cardboard in your dog’s stool because it doesn’t completely break down in their digestive system. Think about giving your dog some canned, unsweetened pumpkin to help the process along.
Can dogs throw up from eating cardboard?
It really depends, as Shannon said, on the size of the pieces and how much was consumed. Dogs do not digest paper. Hopefully, it will go through your dog’s system without causing any issues, like blockage. Your dog may even throw up the cardboard pieces.