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My puppy ate an alcohol prep pad. Do I need to call the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 7 months and 20 days old | 20 lbs

I have a 20 lb 9 month pup who might have ate a alcohol prep pad. He had some food in his tummy, not a full meal. He is currently resting beside me for his morning nap. Should I call our vet?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 31st, 2018

This will likely pass on its own. I do not think you have to worry. Just in case it does not pass per vias naturalis, and causes an obstruction (unlikely), watch for diarrhea and retching and lethargy. If that occurs Scout needs to be seen by a veterinarian right away. But as I said, it is unlikely. The little bit of alcohol on the pad might make him tired. And the pad, being paper tissue, should somewhat dissolve and pass.

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    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I hate to hear that Scout is giving you a scare! By alcohol prep pad, I am assuming you are meaning a regular isopropyl alcohol pad used for general cleansing. This product can have variable dosages to cause toxicity. In fact, some dogs can experience toxicity from inhaling the vapors. Symptoms usually set in within 30 minutes of ingestion and include: vomiting, central nervous depression, trouble breathing or abdominal pain. Treatment is to induce vomiting and then giving activated charcoal to absorb the toxins. If you suspect Scout did in fact eat the pad, then I would recommend to take him into the vet asap to induce vomiting and start the charcoal. If only he could talk and tell you what happened! I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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