My dog ate an oily paper towel. Will it pass or cause a blockage?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Maltese | Male | neutered | 4 years and 11 months old
My dog ate a paper towel soaked in some oil. Will he pass it or will he get a blockage.
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on September 13th, 2016
Often times, paper towels will pass through without a problem - especially if Max chewed it into pieces before eating it. But there is always a chance that it could cause a blockage. You will need to monitor him closely for the next 2-3 days for any signs of a problem - if he begins vomiting, acting lethargic, or doesn't want to eat, then you need to take him to a vet right away for x-rays and possible surgery if a blockage is found. As long as he is acting normal, I wouldn't worry - you can keep an eye out for pieces of the paper towel to pass in his stool.
20Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on
A paper towel in most cases should pass without much problem. The oil in it might add to the nausea, and will probably cause diarrhea.
16Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on February 1st, 2017
Dogs eat the weirdest things sometimes! The only problem with a paper towel is that there is a potential for it causing a blockage in his intestines. It can pass, and I would monitor your dog for the next 72 hours. Should you see any signs of a blockage, which include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, anorexia, and constipation, then I would take him into the vet right away.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on November 26th, 2018
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could potentially pass but it is hard to know for sure. I recommend you watch him closely for any signs of a gastrointestinal obstruction such as vomiting, inappetence and/or abdominal pain. If any of these are observed, I recommend you consider having him evaluated by a veterinarian as he may need therapy. You could consider having him wear a basket muzzle when unsupervised to avoid him getting into stuff like that. Best of luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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