PupkeeperToxicEmergency
Dog ate hand warmers and oxygen absorbers (iron)? What to do
Some hand warmers and food oxygen-absorber packets contain iron, which can cause vomiting, bloody diarrhea, shock and liver damage in dogs.
If your dog ate or touched this, call your vet or a pet poison line now
United States
Poison lines in other countries: United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand
What to do now
- Call your vet or a pet poison line now.
- Keep the wrapper and bring it with you.
- Bring any leftover contents, or vomit, to the clinic if you can.
Don't
- Don't make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting, with or without blood
- Bloody diarrhea
- Low energy
- Belly pain
- Tremors
- Shock or collapse
When signs appear: Vomiting often comes first; severe signs can appear 1 to 5 days later
Why
Iron is very toxic when swallowed in large enough amounts. Even the small amount in one oxygen absorber packet can cause severe poisoning, especially in small dogs.
Sources
- Pet Poison Helpline: Hand Warmers
- Pet Poison Helpline: Are Packaging Freshness Packets Really Toxic to Dogs?
- Pet Poison Helpline: Iron
Guide reviewed 9 October 2026.
General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.