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My dog ate a battery: What symptoms should I watch for and when?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 20 lbs

If my dog ate a battery, what would be the symptoms? And how long after would they shpw up? (It didn’t happen just wondering to be prepared in case it happens some day, hopefully never)

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 15th, 2019

If batteries are punctured and leak acid they can cause gastric or esophageal ulcers and symptoms would be vomiting, a decreased appetite, or regurgitation. I suppose a larger battery could cause an intestinal obstruction if ingested and the symptoms would be similar. If the battery is not punctured there is also a chance it could pass through the gastrointestinal tract without incident.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 21st, 2018

    Oh no, that's not good that Trapper bit into a battery! I'm not sure how long ago he did this, but you can see ulcers forming over a couple of hours after battery fluid got into the mouth. Other signs of battery fluid ingestion include abdominal pain, black and tarry feces, difficulty swallowing, excessive drooling, lack of appetite, lethargy, mouth pain, and vomiting. If you see any of those signs, take him into a vet immediately. I hope this helps!

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