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Pet Poison Control: Household Batteries

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Pet Poison Control: Household Batteries
Posted on January 18, 2017 in News, Caring for your pet, Tips & Advice
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Most people are uplifted by the holiday season and anxious to share it with their household pets, however, a word of caution is in order. Playful, curious dogs and cats are often attracted to the bright, shiny surfaces of household batteries and it comes as no surprise that the holiday season is associated with an increased number of pet exposures. Batteries are seemingly everywhere during this time of year, especially in decorations, electronics, and toys, giving dogs and cats unlimited access.  In addition, visitors with hearing aids often leave these batteries loose on tables or bedside stands, forgetting that dogs and cats are attracted to them. Dogs tend to mouth and chew batteries while cats are more likely to bat them around in play.  Left untouched, batteries aren’t harmful, and in fact, most swallowed batteries pass through the gastrointestinal tract without incident.  If, however, a dog or cat damages one enough to cause leakage or swallows one intact and it becomes lodged or stuck in their esophagus the picture rapidly changes.

There are two primary types of household batteries: alkaline dry cells and lithium. Alkaline dry cell batteries use a corrosive material such as sodium or potassium hydroxide to generate current. Generally these batteries are used to power toys, flashlights, hearing aids, and other household items. Lithium batteries are noncorrosive and generate current through an electrochemical process.  About 80% of household lithium batteries are composed of lithium manganese dioxide (LiMnO2) with lithium iron disulfide (LiFeS2) and other forms used less frequently.  Lithium batteries are typically small, round discs used in watches, cameras, and other electronic devices.

Injuries from alkaline dry cell batteries occur by two different mechanisms. When a pet chews or otherwise significantly damages a battery the corrosive electrolyte material leaks out resulting in skin or mucosal necrosis.  Alternatively, a disc type battery, if swallowed, may become lodged or stuck in the esophagus and cause burns by an electrochemical effect even if it is not leaking.  In human pediatric medicine, ingested disc batteries in the 12-25mm size range are associated with more serious outcomes and death. This is unlikely to be true in veterinary medicine due to the large variation in size and weight of dogs and cats and ingestion of any size disc battery is suspect.

Lithium disc batteries are noncorrosive, but far more dangerous than alkaline dry cells when lodged in the esophagus.  Electrochemical effects in these type batteries cause a very rapid onset of tissue necrosis and esophageal perforation.  It has been estimated that only 15 minutes of esophageal contact with a 3-volt lithium battery results in significant and life threatening damage.

Battery casings, the metalized film covering a battery, contain a variety of different metals such as lithium, silver, lead, and zinc. Heavy metal toxicity from ingested casings rarely occurs as most swallowed batteries generally passed through the gastrointestinal tract in just a few days.  Lodged pieces, in particular lead and zinc, have the greatest potential for metal toxicity.

Other potential hazards include choking or aspirating a disc battery and a foreign body obstruction. Many of the hearing aid batteries are so tiny that inhalation is an unusual, but distinct possibility. Foreign body obstructions can occur anywhere in the gastrointestinal tract if ingested battery pieces or casings become lodged. Most batteries or pieces that haven’t passed through the pylorus in 24-48 hours aren’t going to move any farther.

Making the diagnosis is usually not difficult. Sometimes the pet parent brings in or reports finding a well-chewed battery or mangled battery-powered device. In these cases, grayish black material present in the mouth, adhered to the teeth, or on the gums indicates that a battery has been destroyed enough to leak corrosive material.  If the battery is reported as missing, an X-ray taken from the oral cavity to intestines is used to determine whether it was swallowed and to pinpoint the location in gastrointestinal tract it.

The onset of clinical signs is rapid, generally occurring within just a few hours although occasionally signs may be delayed for up to 12 hours or longer.  Common early signs include redness around the lips and gums, grayish black material in the mouth and oral cavity, coughing, and retching or gagging. Later signs include dyspnea, respiratory stridor, vomiting a “coffee grounds” type material, blood in the stool, and a temperature elevation.

Treatment depends on the specific battery and whether it is has been chewed and is leaking or swallowed whole.  Those that have been licked or chewed leaving only wet, saliva covered, teeth marks and a non-leaking, intact battery do not pose a significant threat as long as the owner confirms that the battery and all parts are present. The mouth and surrounding skin should be washed with warm water and the animal monitored for the next several hours for signs of oral irritation (drooling, crying, pawing at mouth).  A veterinarian should be consulted if these or other signs occur.

A more serious problem arises when a battery has been chewed or otherwise destroyed and is leaking but not swallowed.  Cylindrical or rectangular batteries are the usual culprits in this instance.  Early at home intervention includes confirmation that all battery pieces are present and gently washing the mouth and skin with warm water. Emesis is not recommended; rather the pet should be examined carefully by a veterinarian.  Care is primarily symptomatic and supportive and may include, as indicated by the physical examination, irrigation of the mouth including the gums and tongue, clear liquids, soft diet, antibiotics, stomach protectants, and pain medication.

Animals swallowing a leaking battery need more aggressive care. At home treatment includes diluting the oral cavity diluted well with warm water and seeking veterinary assistance.  Emesis is not recommended.  The oral and pharyngeal areas should be examined well by the veterinarian for any evidence of irritation and necrosis and X-rays obtained to locate the battery, confirm the size, and identify any unattached pieces or parts.  Depending on where the battery is located, either immediate endoscopy or surgery will be required to remove it.  Baseline blood work, including a WBC with differential, is recommended prior to surgery.  The endoscopic oral route should not be used to remove leaking batteries and pieces as further tissue damage may result as the battery is removed.   Batteries and pieces present in the esophagus are generally best removed by using an endoscope to push them into the stomach and surgically remove them.

The most serious problem occurs when batteries, especially smaller disc batteries, are swallowed intact (i.e. no leaking) and become lodged in the moist folds of the esophagus.  Survey radiographs can be used to identify the battery’s location and guide therapy.

  • If the battery is present in the esophagus and the caller is confident the battery is NOT composed of lithium, serial X-rays (30-60 minutes apart) should be taken to determine battery movement. If the battery is lodged, endoscopy to remove it or push the battery into the stomach is recommended.
  • If the battery is present in the esophagus and known to be lithium or the contents unknown, X-rays should be taken in a much shorter time frame (15 -20 minutes) to confirm movement, remembering that lodged lithium batteries are associated with a rapid onset of esophageal tissue necrosis. If no there is no movement, endoscopy to either remove the battery or push it into the stomach is recommended.
  • If the battery is intact and located in stomach, treatment recommendations change considerably as most batteries in the stomach will pass through without incidence. Treatment includes a high fiber diet and straining the animal’s stool for 3-4 days to ensure passage. If there is no evidence of a battery in stool after this time X-ray’s can be used to determine exact location. Once located, endoscopic or surgical removal is recommended due to risk of mucosal damage from battery case degradation and heavy metal toxicity.

It is important to remember that while most battery ingestions are mild and do little harm to the animal, some do great damage and need considerable care and treatment.  In the event that assistance is required, the skilled veterinarians at Pet Poison Helpline are available 24/7 to provide information and help formulate a treatment plan.

If you think your pet may have ingested something toxic, call us immediately.

Article by Lynn R. Hovda, RPh, DVM, MS, DACVIM, courtesy of Pet Poison Hotline
          
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You assessed your cat's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 3 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of your cat’s general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 3 indicates that your cat is thin.

What to do next: While thin cats are generally at lower risk for serious health issues compared to overweight cats, being underweight can lead to decreased muscle mass, malnutrition, and a weakened immune system. Unless there is an underlying reason for your cat’s thinness, the situation can often be improved with simple lifestyle adjustments, such as:

  • Offering a palatable diet recommended by your veterinarian
  • Feeding small, frequent meals
  • Stimulating the appetite by warming the food or introducing toppers
  • Minimizing stress
  • Weighing your cat monthly
  • Re-checking your cat's BCS at home
  • Staying alert to other health changes (especially continued weight loss and appetite loss)

Your cat's BCS provides valuable insights into their overall health and helps us spot potential issues early. While a BCS of 3 isn’t an immediate cause for concern, it’s a sign that small adjustments to their feeding and care routine could have a positive impact on their health.

Questions? We can help. Let’s work together to score a win for your cat's health.

You assessed your cat's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 6 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of your cat’s general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 6 indicates that your cat is borderline overweight.

What to do next: Simple daily actions can help prevent your cat from becoming overweight. Even a few extra ounces or pounds can significantly impact their health, increasing the risk of serious conditions like diabetes, arthritis, and kidney disease.

Restore your cat's future health by:

  • Feeding portioned meals (Your veterinarian can assist you with how much to feed)
  • Reducing stress by minimizing household changes and maintaining a routine
  • Decreasing boredom with interactive toys, social interaction, and cat furniture
  • Separating pets during meal time (Consider a microchip-linked feeder for multi-cat households)
  • Weighing them monthly
  • Re-checking your cat's BCS at home

Your cat's BCS is like a warning light for their future health. Taking proactive steps to address your cat’s weight can minimize future complications and help ensure they stay fit, agile, and healthy.

Curious about other ways to improve your cat’s BCS and overall well-being? Get in touch. Let’s work together to score a win for their health.

You assessed your dog's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 4-5 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of general body composition, including muscle and fat. On a scale of 1 to 9, with 1 being very thin and 9 being obese, your dog's score means they are at their ideal weight for optimal health and well-being!

What to do next: First, give your dog a scratch behind the ears to celebrate your success! Your commitment to their preventive health—regular vet visits, balanced nutrition, and consistent exercise—is truly paying off. But don’t relax just yet—maintaining a healthy BCS takes ongoing effort throughout your dog's life, including:

  • Feeding portioned meals
  • Avoiding high-calorie treats, diets, and people food
  • Staying active with regular exercise
  • Re-checking your pet’s BCS monthly at home
  • Staying on top of routine care (exams, screening tests) to ensure early detection of health changes

Just like your dog's vital signs, their BCS gives valuable insight into their overall health. Right now, we like what we see—and feel! But remember, supporting your dog's lifelong health is a team effort. By continuing the great work you’re doing and partnering with us, we can help ensure they stay healthy for years to come.

You assessed your cat's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 7-8 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of your cat’s general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 7-8 indicates that your cat is overweight.

What to do next: Weight issues are a common cause of many feline health problems, some of which can shorten a cat's life. Fortunately, with your dedication and our support, your cat can achieve better health, mobility, and an ideal body weight.

Rather than asking your cat to participate in daily exercise, feline weight loss emphasizes targeted nutrition and stress reduction to help them shed those unwanted pounds. This entails:

  • Offering a palatable weight-management diet recommended by your veterinarian
  • Feeding portioned meals (Your veterinarian can assist you with how much to feed)
  • Using a microchip-linked feeder for multi-cat households to ensure each cat consumes their veterinarian-recommended portion
  • Minimizing stress by maintaining a stable routine
  • Decreasing boredom through positive interactions such as interactive toys, food puzzles, cat-friendly furniture, and social bonding
  • Promoting movement with motion-activated food toys and puzzles
  • Weighing them monthly
  • Re-checking their BCS at home

Overweight cats not only face long-term health risks but can also suffer from discomfort and emotional stress. Intentional, veterinary-supervised changes can help ensure your cat’s fitness, comfort, and overall well-being for years to come. Let’s work together to score a win for your cat's health.

You assessed your dog's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 3 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 3 indicates that your dog is thin.

What to do next: Although a lean body condition is healthier than being overweight, thinness can indicate muscle loss, health changes, or a lack of appropriate nutrition. Here are a few ways to help your dog reach their optimal weight and health:

  • Follow any recommendations given by your vet (these are personalized for your dog's unique needs)
  • Gradually transition your dog to a calorie-dense diet
  • Weigh them monthly
  • Re-check their BCS at home
  • Provide regular moderate exercise to build healthy muscle
  • Monitor them for other health changes (appetite loss, vomiting, unusual stools, fatigue, etc.)

Just like your dog's vital signs, their BCS gives valuable insight into their overall health and can help identify potential issues early. While a BCS of 3 isn't a serious concern, it suggests that your dog may benefit from adjustments to their diet and exercise routine. Please continue to monitor your dog for any other health changes—including difficulty gaining weight—as these could indicate the need for further evaluation. Let’s work together to help your dog achieve better health, so you can make the most of every moment together.

Now that’s a perfect score.

You assessed your dog's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 9 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 9 indicates that your dog is obese (weighing 20% or more above their ideal weight).

What to do next: Dogs with obesity are in significant danger of many life-altering health conditions, including arthritis, cardiovascular problems, kidney disease, and cancer. Reducing your dog's weight and improving their body condition is critical to restoring their comfort, mobility, health, and longevity.

Take action today to protect your dog's  health by:

  • Following any veterinarian’s recommendations (these are personalized to your dog's unique needs)
  • Using a measuring cup to portion meals
  • Removing uneaten food after 20 minutes
  • Limiting treats to low-calorie fruits or vegetables
  • Exercising daily for at least 30 minutes (leash walks are a great way to start)
  • Weigh them  monthly
  • Re-check their BCS at home

Just like your dog's vital signs, their BCS gives valuable insight into their overall health. In your dog's case, it’s a signal for immediate action.

By following the steps above and your veterinarian’s recommendations, getting your dog back to a healthy weight is possible, but it will take time and effort. That’s why we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Let’s work together to score a WIN for Sydney’s health.

You assessed your cat's body condition score (BCS) to be 1–2 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of your cat’s general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 1 to 2 indicates that your cat is very thin, at least 20% below their ideal weight. This may be caused by poor nutrition or an underlying illness.

What to do next: Since a BCS of 1 to 2 can indicate potential health concerns, your cat's veterinarian may suggest blood work or other tests.

In addition to following any plan outlined by your cat's veterinarian, the following steps may help them achieve their ideal weight and BCS:

  • Offering a palatable diet recommended by your veterinarian
  • Feeding small, frequent meals
  • Warming the food or introducing toppers
  • Feeding pets separately
  • Minimizing stress
  • Weighing them  monthly
  • Re-checking their BCS at home
  • Watching for other concerning signs, such as loss of appetite, vomiting, or changes in litter box habits, as these may require prompt veterinary care.

Just like your cat's vital signs, their BCS offers important insight into their overall health. While a BCS of 1 to 2 can be concerning, we’ll work together to help your cat safely achieve their optimal weight and vitality.

You assessed your dog's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 6 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 6 indicates that your dog is borderline overweight.

What to do next: With just a few pounds separating your dog from being overweight, a BCS of 6 is a clear call to action! Excess weight can increase their risk for serious health problems, such as arthritis, heart disease, and even cancer, and studies have shown that it can shorten their lifespan.

Here are a few ways to help Gigi reach their ideal weight:

  • Follow any recommendations given by your veterinarian (these are personalized for your dog's unique needs!)
  • Use a measuring cup to portion meals
  • Don’t leave food out all day
  • Weigh them monthly
  • Re-check their BCS at home
  • Provide regular moderate exercise to build healthy muscle

Just like your dog's vital signs, their BCS gives valuable insight into their overall health and and can help identify potential issues early. While a BCS of 6 isn't dangerous, it does raise their risk for many life-altering conditions and signals a need for change.

Let’s work together to help your dog achieve a better BCS and overall wellness, so you can make the most of every moment together.

Now that’s a perfect score!

You assessed your dog's body condition score (BCS) to be to be 7-8 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 7 to 8 indicates that your dog is overweight.

What to do next: Your dog's weight is putting them at an increased risk for many serious conditions, including arthritis, diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. Overweight dogs are also clinically shown to have a shorter lifespan and a reduced quality of life.

Thankfully, it’s not too late to get back on track! Here are some simple steps to help your dog achieve a better BCS and a healthier life:

Here are a few ways to help them reach their ideal weight:

  • Reduce meal portions by 10% to 20%
  • Use a measuring cup for accuracy
  • Switch to a weight management diet
  • Swap treats for low-calorie fruits and veggies
  • Increase daily walks and playtime
  • Use a food-dispensing toy instead of a bowl to encourage movement
  • Weigh them monthly
  • Re-check their BCS at home

Just like your dog's vital signs, their BCS gives valuable insight into their overall health and quality of life. The actions you take in the days, weeks, and months ahead can help them slim down, restore their well-being, and allow you both to make the most of every moment together.

Let’s work together to score a WIN for your dog's health and happiness.

Now that’s a perfect score!

You assessed their body condition score (BCS) to be to be 9 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of your cat’s general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 9 indicates that your cat is obese (20% or more over their ideal body weight).

What to do next: Cats with obesity are in a health crisis. Excess weight strains their joints, leading to painful and decreased mobility. In addition, abundant fat tissue increases their risk for life-altering diseases like diabetes, arthritis, kidney disease, heart disease, and cancer.

Let their BCS be a turning point in their health.

With simple lifestyle changes and guided support from our team, we can restore your cat's quality of life and help them lose those unnecessary pounds.

We’ll focus on nutrition and stress reduction to create positive results. This includes:

  • Offering a palatable weight-management diet recommended by your veterinarian
  • Feeding portioned meals (Your veterinarian can assist you with how much to feed)
  • Using a microchip-linked feeder for multi-cat households to ensure each cat consumes their veterinarian-recommended portion
  • Minimizing stress in your cat’s environment
  • Decreasing boredom through positive interactions (interactive toys, food puzzles, cat-friendly furniture, and social bonding)
  • Encouraging healthy movement and exploration (motion-activated toys, food puzzles, ramps to perches, scratching posts, cat tunnels)
  • Weighing them monthly
  • Re-checking their BCS at home

Your cat’s body condition is a key factor in their health and longevity. Together, we can score a victory by helping them lose weight and reclaim their health, happiness, and mobility.

You assessed your cat's body condition score (BCS) to be 4-5 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of your cat’s general body composition, including muscle and fat. On a scale of 1–9, with 1 being very thin and 9 being obese, this score means they are at their ideal weight for optimal health and well-being!

What to do next: First, give your cat a head bump or a scratch to celebrate your success! Your dedication to their overall health—through regular vet visits, balanced and portion-controlled nutrition, a low-stress environment, and plenty of physical and mental activity—is truly paying off.

But don’t relax just yet—maintaining your cat’s healthy BCS will take ongoing effort throughout their lifetime. Keep up the good work by:

  • Minimizing stress
  • Creating a mentally and physically stimulating environment
  • Satisfying your cat’s social needs with one-on-one time
  • Encouraging movement with interactive toys, perches, and furniture
  • Feeding measured portions of a veterinarian-recommended, high quality, palatable diet
  • Checking your cat’s BCS monthly at home
  • Staying on top of routine veterinary care

Just like your cat's vital signs, their BCS gives us valuable insight into their overall health. Right now, we like what we see—and feel! But remember, supporting your cat's lifelong health is a team effort. By continuing the great work you’re doing and partnering with us, we can help ensure they stay healthy for years to come.

You assessed your dog's body condition score (BCS) to be 1–2 out of 9.

What does this mean? The BCS is an assessment of general body composition, including muscle and fat. While a score of 4 to 5 is ideal, a BCS of 1 to 2 indicates that your dog is very thin, at least 20% below their ideal weight. This may be caused by poor nutrition or an underlying illness.

What to do next: Since a BCS of 1 to 2 can indicate potential health concerns, your dog's veterinarian may suggest  blood work or other tests.

If no issues are found, the following steps may help your dog achieve their ideal weight and BCS:

  • Gradually transitioning them to a calorie-dense diet
  • Feeding more frequent meals
  • Weighing them monthly
  • Re-checking their BCS at home
  • Providing regular moderate exercise to build healthy muscle
  • Monitoring them for other health changes (appetite loss, vomiting, unusual stools, fatigue, etc.)

Just like your dog's vital signs, their BCS offers important insight into their overall health and can serve as an early warning that something may be wrong. While a BCS of 1 to 2 can be concerning, please know that your pet's well-being is our top priority. Let’s work together to help your pet pal achieve better health, so you can make the most of every moment together.