My dog ate bacon. What are the signs of a serious problem?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

  Veterinarian

  Other than some mild vomiting this is unlikely to cause a problem. Some dogs are very sensitive to high fat food and can develop pancreatitis with severe pain and vomiting

  

  27Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

  Veterinarian

  Published on July 26th, 2017

  Fatty bacon has likely caused inflammation of her pancreas known as pancreatitis. This can be painful, but it sounds like she has had a mild bout. I would let her drink but withold food the rest of the day as it allows the pancreas to settle. Hopefully she will be able to keep food down tomorrow, but feed her plain chicken and rice. If she gets dull head to the vet as pancreatitis can be serious.

  

  2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Summer Walker, DVM, MS

  Veterinarian

  Published on June 12th, 2017

  I would keep a close watch on him for gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or inappetance. Some cases are mild and self-limiting (resolve on own within 24 hours), but others can become more severe. The consumption of a large amount of fat (such as bacon fat) in some dogs can lead to the development of pancreatitis, which can be fatal if severe and left untreated. If Riley begins to show a decrease in appetite, lethargy, persistent vomiting, or diarrhea that worsens or contains blood or a large amount of mucous I would schedule a visit with his veterinarian. Based on his clinical signs at the time of the visit, a fecal float/direct smear may be performed, as well as comprehensive bloodwork (serum biochemistry, complete blood count). A cPLI test may also be performed to rule-out underlying pancreatitis.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By C. Rathjens, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on July 19th, 2018

  Oh no! Bacon grease will definitely be irritating for their intestinal tracts. It will likely cause diarrhea and possibly vomiting over the next few days. It can also cause pancreatitis if the irritation is severe enough. The seriousness of the situation depends on how much they ate and all on the dogs themselves (meaning two dogs could eat a similar amount of fat and one be fine while the other one gets very sick).
  
  Pancreatitis is a very serious condition that often requires hospitalization and can be fatal. It basically involves digestive enzymes getting out of the intestinal tract where they belong, and causing irritation, pain, and inflammation to the surrounding body organs. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, poor appetite, poor energy, and abdominal pain.
  
  So, you need to watch out for any of the symptoms above and take them to the vet if anything is starting. It's easy to treat when catch early. However, there really isn't anything to do right now. If the puppy continues to appear bloated, or does any dry heaving, he should go to the emergency clinic for evaluation.
  
  Wishing you the best of luck.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful