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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)

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

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!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Juliana, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on June 4th, 2017
I'm sorry to hear Cody got a hold of a battery! Batteries can be very dangerous - depending on what type of battery and whether the inside was penetrated they can cause a lot of Damage to the stomach and esophagus. If they are vomiting black material or have black stool we worry about ulcers in the stomach. I would have Cody evaluated right away by a veterinarian. They can take an x-ray to see where the battery is and prescribe medication to protect his stomach. I hope Cody feels better soon!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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My dog swallowed a battery. When will I see symptoms appear?

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My dog ate a battery. Will it pass in his stool and how long?

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