Paper Towels vs. Kleenex vs. Toilet Tissue
Most Kleenex or tissue paper that people use on their noses are of a similar density and weight as toilet tissue used in the bathroom. Paper towels can be thicker, larger, and denser. All three are usually made using very similar ingredients. Usually, when consumed, any of the three will be shredded before ingestion.
Because paper towels have a thicker density, they may be more harmful to dogs. It really depends on if the paper was shredded, how much was consumed, and how big your dog is. Larger dogs have bigger intestinal tracts and can pass things differently. This means a Mastiff may have an easier time passing toilet paper than a Chihuahua. Paper towels can pose a slightly higher risk for obstruction depending on the density of the paper towel ingested.
Regardless of which type of paper product your dog consumed, you’ll need to follow the same steps. Paper Towels are more well known for causing bowel obstructions than other paper products, but all three warrant an immediate call to the vet.
Step 1: Gather Facts
Firstly, try to estimate how much tissue might have been eaten. This is difficult when the paper consumed was shredded. You should also check whether anything was on the tissue that could be dangerous.
Downsides of Toilet Paper on Dogs
Whether or not your dog’s life is at risk really depends on how much toilet paper they have ingested. As already stated, small pieces aren’t dangerous and your dog’s normal bodily functions will be able to flush out the toilet paper from their system.
The danger lies with larger pieces of toilet paper. When they ingest them, it can lead to blockages of the intestine. Even though a dog’s stomach is acidic enough to break down a bone, it will have challenges with toilet paper.
What To Do If Your Dog Ate A Paper Towel (Or Toilet Paper)
How Eating Toilet Paper Harms Your Dog’s Health. Eating toilet paper can lead to serious digestive issues. At the very least, your pup may experience an upset stomach as the toilet paper passes through their system. This could cause vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and lethargy.