Q: I am worried that my pet has eaten an oxygen absorber from a treat packet. Should I be concerned? What can I do?

Iron-containing oxygen absorber sachets are included in the bags of VitaPet treats listed below. They are essential to maintain food freshness, quality and safety.

As highlighted on the packaging and written on the sachet itself, they are not intended for consumption, so if you suspect that your pet has eaten an oxygen absorber or its contents, it’s important that you respond quickly:

• CHECK EVERYWHERE. Have a good search of all places where the opened bag has been, in the areas where your pet has consumed their treats and even around and in their mouth (if it’s safe!).

Confirm 100% that the sachet isn’t hidden at the bottom of the bag, under, or between remaining treats, and that it’s not present in their surroundings.

• SUPPORT YOUR PET. Exposure to the iron-containing powder inside the sachet may lead to health issues, so troubles are most likely to arise if the sachet is pierced open or chewed by your pet.

Degree of risk is dependent on the general health as well as the size (weight) of your pet, meaning that smaller dogs and cats are of greatest concern, particularly if they have an empty stomach. Large and medium sized dogs are less likely to experience adverse signs, however it is always wise to monitor and report the incident to your vet.

Another consideration is for the package itself. We call this a 'foreign body', meaning we need to be mindful of it becoming stuck in a pet's gastro-intestinal tract if accidentally swallowed.

On all occasions, TLC goes a long way. Keep your pet well hydrated with ample access to clean water and provided that they are not vomiting, offer them a small meal of their favourite good quality pet food if they have not recently eaten.

• CALL YOUR VET. If you have any concerns for the health and wellbeing of your pet, we recommend seeking veterinary attention as soon as possible. Absorption of iron generally occurs in the first few hours after ingestion, and your vet will make decisions on whether to induce vomiting according to the information you provide them…
• GATHER INFORMATION. Take note of what has occurred and record the facts relating to the information above. It’s important that you provide these to your vet.

The powder inside the oxygen absorber is a combination of clay and iron. As the iron component is potentially harmful, it is important that you know the amount of iron that your pet has potentially ingested.  Below is a table listing the approximate iron content of various VitaPet treats. Take note of this information and share it with your veterinarian.

Note:

• Older ‘spent’ oxygen absorbers will likely have reacted with oxygen and are harder and ‘clumped’ in a solid brown/red mass. These are less likely to cause problems if eaten.
• If you suspect that your dog has eaten a silica gel absorber, please see this FAQ.

If you would like further information or advice, please contact our Consumer Care team online, or via [email protected] or ph 1300 651 111.

Q: I am worried that my pet has eaten a moisture-absorbing silica gel sachet from a treat packet. Should I be concerned? What can I do?

Silica gel absorbers (contained in the VitaPet treat products listed below) are often confused with iron-containing oxygen absorbers as they can look similar. Both absorbers are used to maintain product freshness and safety and ensure that your pet’s treats retain their quality for the duration of their shelf life.

The contents of silica gel sachets are relatively inert and non-toxic compared with iron-containing sachets. They contain a porous form of silicon dioxide that has the ability to absorb moisture from the air or other materials. This function is important in certain formats of treat where condensation within the packaging is a concern, and preservation of colour, flavour, texture and odour is a priority.

Silica gel sachets contain small white beads and come in sachets that read ""Do Not Eat/Not for Consumption."

Their contents are inert, meaning that it is not highly reactive or toxic upon ingestion. However, it is still recommended to keep the sachet away from pets and to dispose of them carefully after opening a bag of treats.

If the sachet is pierced or open, the silica can cause some physical irritation to a dog’s stomach and gut if eaten, which may result in signs of gastro-intestinal upset, such as nausea, vomiting, and reduced appetite.

If large volumes are eaten by very small dogs, fluid shifts can occur as silica pulls water into the gastrointestinal tract from surrounding tissues which can result in dehydration and diarrhoea. In such cases, the effect of the silica can be diluted by offering water or food.

If sachets are swallowed whole, there is also a concern for its physical presence in the gastro-intestinal tract, which is of greater concern for smaller pets.

In any instance, if you have any concerns for the health and wellbeing of your pet, we recommend seeking veterinary attention as soon as possible.

If you would like further information or advice, please contact our Consumer Care team online, or via [email protected] or ph 1300 651 111.