Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Dog chewed bottle cap, gum bled. Is infection a concern? Vet needed?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Eskimo Dog | Male | neutered | 8 years and 4 months old | 30 lbs

Brody got a hold of a cap to a water bottle when he was outside today and tried to eat it. We got it from him pretty quickly but his gum was bleeding from where he was chewing on th cap. It's not bleeding now - he's eating and drinking fine. But can't really see how bad the damage is to his gum. Should I worry that if it is a cut it could get infected? Does he need to go to a vet to get checked ?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on April 28th, 2017

I'm glad that Brody did not ingest the bottle cap! Gum tissue in the mouth is very vascular and can bleed fairly profusely, but also tends to heal quickly. At this point, since Brody is eating, drinking and acting normally, there is no need to rush him to the vet. The chances of this type of injury becoming infected are relatively low, but certainly not impossible. If anything changes with his appetite, or if he begins to show signs of mouth pain (dropping food, pawing at the mouth, drooling), Brody should be examined by a vet. Otherwise, continue monitoring Brody for problems over the next few days. I hope that all goes well!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jeffrey Milner

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    These types of injuries are typically are usually not serious. As long as the bleeding has already ceased and Brody is acting normally, I would not rush off to the vet. If you begin to see Brody acting strangely of if the bleeding continues in a steady fashion, it would be wise to get things checked out.

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored