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My dog ate corn and is throwing up. When should I take her to the vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Hi, my lab and whippet mix ate some field corn that I put out for deer and now she keeps throwing up everything. Should I take her to the vet?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Angel Alvarado, LVT

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on August 19th, 2015

If she ingested a cob, she should be seen by your vet as the cob may cause a GI obstruction. Moldy corn poses risk of aflatoxin toxicity and requires veterinary attention. If was regular, fresh corn off the cob then large quantities can cause GI upset such as vomiting and diarrhea. Withhold food for 12-24 hours. Allow small amounts of water or unflavored PediaLyte. Resume feeding a bland diet (1:1 ratio of plain boiled boneless chicken and plain white rice). Feed in small, frequent amounts waiting at least one hour between feedings. If the vomiting stops, transition slowly to the regular diet. If not, see your veterinarian.
Vote Icon10Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on May 4th, 2022

    I'd schedule a visit with your vet ASAP if Maggie is unable to keep anything down at all and is acting very ill. In the meantime, keeping her comfortable, providing water at all times, and not giving any food, people snacks, or treats for several hours to help keep her stomach from getting more irritated. If she worsens, is in distress, or is vomiting without stopping, looking for an emergency vet near you is best.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 7th, 2018

    Hi. thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

    Corn cobs can be a problem. I have seen them sit in the stomach for months then move in to the intestines and cause an obstruction requiring surgery. I have also seen dogs vomit them up months later. They are very hard to pass. Your options are to wait and see or take her to your vet for belly X-rays. If you decide to take her to your Vet, bring her fasted for 12 hours since food in the stomach can obscure the corn cob. Then you and your Vet can decide whether to try to make her vomit if they think it is still in the stomach. If you decide to wait and see then the moment she stops eating, starts to vomit or is lethargic she should see your Vet. Keep monitoring her stool for the corn cob.

    I hope this helps and I wish Bliss the very best!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

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