These pennies can add up to hundreds of dollars - in emergency vet bills.
As a pet owner, you may already be aware of the hazards of lead poisoning in pets. But did you know that zinc is toxic, also?
Where would my pet find zinc? Items containing or made from zinc include metal travel cages, plumbing nuts, hardware nuts, zinc oxide ointment, game board pieces, and pennies minted after 1982.
What are the signs of zinc toxicity in a pet? Look for vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and membranes), blood in the urine, and pale mucous membranes.
What is the treatment? Xrays can determine the presence and location of swallowed objects, while blood and urine tests can determine the extent of injury. Removal of the objects may require endoscopy or surgery. Removal of the zinc object is necessary for recovery. Some pets will need a blood transfusion, as well. The veterinarian will determine which type of supportive care is necessary, depending on the organs affected.
What happens after that? The veterinarian will monitor your pet’s response to treatment, especially within the first 72 hours.
Is zinc toxicity really considered an emergency? Yes. Unless the pet receives treatment soon after ingesting the zinc object, it may suffer organ failure and a heart attack. Known or suspected zinc ingestion cases will always be sent to the local emergency hospital.
[…] This article originally posted February 1, […]