My dog ate flax seeds. Is it OK?
Yes, your dog can eat flax seeds. Flaxseeds provide various health benefits for your dog, although it should be given in moderation. And if your dog is not used to it, you should start with small quantities to see if your dog is ok with flaxseeds.
How should I introduce flax seeds in my dog’s diet?
You can introduce flax seeds in small quantities in your dog’s diet. A good way would be to grind the seeds as it’ll be easier for your dog’s stomach to digest them. But be sure to serve the ground seeds quickly as they get rancid over time. So it’s better to grind them just before your dog’s eating time. You may also consult your vet about the safe doses of flax seeds according to your dog.
What are the benefits of flax seeds for my dog?
Flax seeds have a ton of benefits for your dog. The Omega-3 essential fatty acids content in flax seeds, contribute to cell function, immune function, cell membrane structure, maintenance of your dog’s skin and coat, normal growth and reproduction. The anti-inflammatory properties help to fight off skin irritants, reduce kidney inflammation. Flax seeds can also help with your dog’s adrenal issues as well as joints and range of mobility.
Is there any health threat to my dog due to flax seeds?
Yes, your dog can suffer flax poisoning. Flax poisoning occurs due to excessive eating of flax seeds, supplements or flax oil. It is very uncommon that your dog would suffer from flax poisoning because flax seeds are well tolerated by dogs. But still, you should consult about the safe dose of flax seeds for your dog.
What are the symptoms of flax poisoning?
Vomiting, upset stomach and diarrhea are the common symptoms of flax poisoning. These aren’t life-threatening and may last for about 2 days. Other severe symptoms include Rapid heartbeat, difficulty in walking, Shortness of breath, paralysis and seizures. In these cases, you should quickly seek medical attention for your dog.
How to control the number of flax seeds in my dog’s diet?
You can control the amount by consulting your doctor about the safe limit. You should keep the flax seeds container away from dogs reach which would prevent your dog from accidentally eating a lot of flax seeds.
What should I do if my dog is suffering from flax poisoning?
If the flax poisoning is very mild, you can wait as the digestive system of your dog will release the seeds in about 1 to 2 days. And if it’s severe you should immediately call your nearest vet and get your dog treated.
How severe flax poisoning is treated?
In case of severe flax poisoning, the vet will try to make the dog vomit so that the seeds come out of your dog’s system. In case it is cyanide poisoning which is far more severe, the veteran will use sodium nitrate and sodium thiosulfate as an antidote.
What are the chances of flax poisoning and cyanide poisoning?
The chances of flax poisoning are very uncommon and for cyanide poisoning it’s rare. So you can feed flax seeds to your dog without worrying too much.
You should feed flax seeds to your dog. Flax seeds have various health benefits for your dog like maintenance of your dog’s coat and skin, immune system, healthy joints, kidney, adrenal support etc. There are threats too like flax poisoning and cyanide poisoning which are rare and doesn’t need to be worried about. The number of flax seeds at homes is generally in low quantities which wouldn’t lead to flax or cyanide poisoning. Although you should consult your veterinarian about the safe amounts of flax seeds according to your dog needs. And we recommend giving flax seeds in ground form as they’re the ones which would give the most health benefits to your dog.
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