What should I do if a dog swallows a mouse? - briefly
If your dog has swallowed a mouse, call a veterinarian right away and follow their instructions, while watching for vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or breathing difficulties. Do not give the dog food or medication until you receive professional guidance.
What should I do if a dog swallows a mouse? - in detail
If a dog consumes a mouse, act promptly. First, assess the animal’s condition. Look for signs of distress such as coughing, gagging, vomiting, excessive drooling, abdominal pain, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. If any of these symptoms appear, treat it as an emergency and contact a veterinarian immediately.
If the dog appears calm and shows no immediate reaction, follow these steps:
- Prevent further ingestion – Remove any remaining mouse parts and secure the area to stop the dog from accessing additional prey.
- Gather information – Note the dog’s size, weight, breed, age, and health history. Determine the approximate time since ingestion and whether the mouse was alive, dead, or possibly carrying parasites or disease.
- Contact a professional – Call a veterinary clinic or an animal poison control hotline. Provide the details collected; the expert will advise whether observation at home is safe or if immediate medical treatment is required.
- Monitor closely – Watch the dog for at least 24 hours. Record any changes in appetite, behavior, stool consistency, or the emergence of vomiting and diarrhea.
- Prepare for veterinary care – If instructed to bring the dog in, bring the mouse (if possible) for identification, along with any packaging that might indicate exposure to toxins.
When a veterinarian evaluates the case, possible interventions include:
- Induced vomiting – Performed only under professional guidance to avoid aspiration.
- Endoscopic retrieval – A camera-equipped tube may be used to remove the mouse if it is still in the esophagus or stomach.
- Medication – Antiemetics, antibiotics, or antiparasitic drugs may be prescribed based on the mouse’s condition and the dog’s health status.
- Supportive care – Intravenous fluids, pain relief, and monitoring for gastrointestinal obstruction.
Do not attempt home remedies such as giving laxatives, oil, or inducing vomiting without veterinary instruction, as these actions can worsen the situation. Prompt professional assessment and careful observation are the most reliable strategies for ensuring the dog’s safety after ingesting a mouse.