A question not often asked is: What happens if a pet eats a spent firework? Turns out, this is a potentially serious problem, too. Guest Author Justine A. Lee DVM DACVEC shares information about firework toxicity and pets.
- Most fireworks are toxic to pets. They contain hazardous chemicals such as potassium nitrate, which is an oxidizing agent. They can also contain charcoal or sulfur and coloring agents, which are potentially dangerous heavy metals.
- When ingested, pets can develop gastrointestinal issues like vomiting, a painful abdomen, and bloody diarrhea. The severity of pet health issues resulting from ingestion will depend on the type of fireworks and the amount that was ingested.
- Pets ingesting large amounts can suffer tremors or seizures, along with acute kidney failure, bone marrow changes, shallow breathing and jaundice, which is yellowing of the skin.
- Exposure to lit fireworks can result in burns to the nose, face, lips, or inside of the mouth, as well as eye irritation and conjunctivitis.
Firework trash is an annoying problem for many of us. Besides picking up these potentially dangerous pieces of trash, knowing that some pets will seek out and eat spent fireworks is a good heads-up for safety. Keep your pet on a leash and monitor where they are and what they eat will help reduce exposure to this toxic trash.
Thank you, Dr. Lee of Pet Poison Helpline, for this important pet safety information.
