Gel balls and Orbeez have become popular toys for kids and even adults, often used for sensory play, crafts, and decorative purposes. However, these small, squishy balls can pose serious risks to your dog if accidentally ingested. While these toys are generally safe for humans, they can cause significant harm to pets, especially dogs, due to their size, texture, and material composition. Here’s what you need to know about the dangers of gel balls and Orbeez for dogs, how to recognize the symptoms of ingestion, and what steps to take if your dog eats them.
What Are Gel Balls and Orbeez?
- Orbeez are small, colorful, water-absorbing beads made from a superabsorbent polymer. They are typically used in sensory play, decorations, or stress-relief activities.
- Gel balls are similar in nature, often used in toys like gel blasters or airsoft guns. They are also made from water-absorbing polymers that swell in size when hydrated.
These items are not toxic by themselves, but they pose serious risks if ingested or chewed by dogs.
Why Are Gel Balls and Orbeez Dangerous for Dogs?
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Choking Hazard:
- Both Orbeez and gel balls are small, round, and can easily be swallowed whole by dogs, especially those that are naturally curious or tend to chew on small objects. This could cause a choking hazard, particularly for smaller dog breeds or puppies.
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Digestive Blockages:
- The primary concern when a dog swallows Orbeez or gel balls is the potential for a blockage in the gastrointestinal tract. The polymer material inside these beads absorbs water and expands in the stomach or intestines. As a result, the object can grow to a size that blocks the passage of food and waste, leading to severe complications.
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Toxicity Risks:
- Some gel balls, especially those used in toys like airsoft guns, might contain chemicals or dyes that could be toxic to dogs. While Orbeez are generally made from non-toxic substances, ingesting large quantities or an object contaminated with chemicals can lead to poisoning symptoms such as vomiting, drooling, or lethargy.
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Eye and Skin Irritation:
- If a dog accidentally gets gel balls or Orbeez in their eyes, it could cause irritation. The moist, sticky texture may also lead to skin discomfort, especially if the beads break open.
Symptoms of Ingestion
If your dog accidentally eats Orbeez or gel balls, watch for the following symptoms of distress or digestive issues:
- Vomiting: This could occur as a reaction to the foreign object or as an attempt to expel it.
- Lethargy: A dog might feel unusually tired or weak if there's a blockage or discomfort in the stomach.
- Loss of Appetite: If the dog is feeling unwell or has a blockage, they might refuse food or water.
- Abdominal Pain or Swelling: If the ball expands inside the stomach or intestines, it could cause pain, bloating, or noticeable swelling in the abdomen.
- Constipation or Diarrhea: Difficulty passing stools, or diarrhea, can also be a sign of a blockage or irritation in the digestive system.
- Excessive Drooling: This could be a sign of nausea or oral discomfort.
- Distress or Restlessness: Your dog may appear agitated or uncomfortable if they’re dealing with a blockage or internal discomfort.
What to Do if Your Dog Ingests Gel Balls or Orbeez
If you suspect that your dog has ingested gel balls or Orbeez, it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent potential harm. Here’s what to do:
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
- Determine how many Orbeez or gel balls your dog has ingested. If you’ve only seen your dog ingest one or two, keep a close eye on them for signs of distress.
- Check their mouth: If there are any visible pieces of gel balls or Orbeez left in the mouth, gently remove them to prevent further ingestion.
2. Monitor for Symptoms
- Keep an eye on your dog for the next 12 to 24 hours. If any symptoms of blockage (vomiting, lethargy, abdominal pain, etc.) develop, contact your vet immediately. Even if you don’t see immediate signs of trouble, it’s better to err on the side of caution.
3. Contact Your Veterinarian
- Call the vet as soon as possible to explain the situation. If your dog has ingested a large number of Orbeez or gel balls, or you see symptoms of distress, the vet may recommend an examination. They might perform an X-ray or ultrasound to assess if there’s a blockage or any other internal issue.
- Don’t induce vomiting unless instructed: Some types of ingestion can be made worse by trying to make your dog vomit, particularly if the object could get stuck in the throat or airway. Only induce vomiting if your vet advises it.
4. Follow Veterinary Advice
- Depending on the severity of the situation, your vet may suggest one of the following treatments:
- Inducing vomiting: If the ingestion was recent and the beads have not expanded yet, the vet may induce vomiting to remove them from the stomach.
- Endoscopy or Surgery: If a blockage occurs, your vet might need to perform an endoscopy to retrieve the beads or, in severe cases, surgery to remove them.
- Observation and Fluid Therapy: If the beads are not causing immediate danger, your vet may recommend keeping your dog under observation and possibly administering fluids to help pass the beads naturally.
Preventive Measures: How to Keep Gel Balls and Orbeez Away from Your Dog
To prevent accidental ingestion in the first place, take the following steps:
- Keep toys and small objects out of reach: Store gel balls, Orbeez, and similar toys in places your dog can’t access.
- Supervise playtime: Always supervise your dog when they’re around small objects like Orbeez or gel balls.
- Choose safer toys: Opt for dog-safe toys made specifically for chewing and play, rather than toys intended for kids or decorative purposes.
- Educate others: If you have kids or others in the household, make sure they understand the dangers of leaving small toys like Orbeez within reach of pets.
Conclusion
While Orbeez and gel balls are generally safe for human play, they can pose serious risks to dogs if ingested. These toys can cause choking, digestive blockages, or even toxicity in some cases. If your dog accidentally eats one, monitor for symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or abdominal pain, and contact your veterinarian promptly for guidance. Preventive measures, such as keeping such toys out of your dog’s reach and supervising play, can help avoid these dangerous situations.
If in doubt, always consult with your vet for the best course of action to ensure your dog’s health and safety.