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My dog ate an oily paper towel. Will it pass or cause a blockage?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Maltese | Male | neutered | 4 years and 11 months old

My dog ate a paper towel soaked in some oil. Will he pass it or will he get a blockage.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on September 13th, 2016

Often times, paper towels will pass through without a problem - especially if Max chewed it into pieces before eating it. But there is always a chance that it could cause a blockage. You will need to monitor him closely for the next 2-3 days for any signs of a problem - if he begins vomiting, acting lethargic, or doesn't want to eat, then you need to take him to a vet right away for x-rays and possible surgery if a blockage is found. As long as he is acting normal, I wouldn't worry - you can keep an eye out for pieces of the paper towel to pass in his stool.

20Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
A paper towel in most cases should pass without much problem. The oil in it might add to the nausea, and will probably cause diarrhea.
16Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on February 1st, 2017
Dogs eat the weirdest things sometimes! The only problem with a paper towel is that there is a potential for it causing a blockage in his intestines. It can pass, and I would monitor your dog for the next 72 hours. Should you see any signs of a blockage, which include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, anorexia, and constipation, then I would take him into the vet right away.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM
Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident
Published on November 26th, 2018
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could potentially pass but it is hard to know for sure. I recommend you watch him closely for any signs of a gastrointestinal obstruction such as vomiting, inappetence and/or abdominal pain. If any of these are observed, I recommend you consider having him evaluated by a veterinarian as he may need therapy. You could consider having him wear a basket muzzle when unsupervised to avoid him getting into stuff like that. Best of luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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