Coffee is a popular drink in the morning that gives people a jolt of energy they need to start the day. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee or coffee grounds is enticing to anyone, even dogs. If your pup gets into your bag of coffee grounds serious consequences can occur, such as your dog throwing up coffee grounds. Read below to learn about the dangers of coffee grounds, symptoms of poisoning, and treatment options.
Why are Coffee Grounds Dangerous to Dogs?
Ingesting coffee grounds can lead to serious poisoning in dogs, due to the high concentration of caffeine. Caffeine is a dangerous toxin for dogs and can lead to a range of serious clinical signs. The smaller the pup, the more dangerous the consequences of caffeine poisoning. Your dog’s gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and nervous systems can all be affected after consuming caffeine, leading to muscle control loss, tremors, and even seizures. If your pup has gotten into coffee grounds, it is important to seek medical treatment right away.
Symptoms of Caffeine Poisoning
If your pup has consumed coffee grounds, it is important to be aware of the symptoms of caffeine poisoning. These signs usually appear within 1-2 hours of ingestion and can include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Increased heart rate
- Elevated blood pressure
- Restlessness
- Agitation
- Heart arrhythmia
Treatment for Caffeine Poisoning
If you believe your pup has ingested coffee grounds and is exhibiting symptoms, it is important to get help right away. Call Pet Poison Helpline® at (855) 764-7661 and your veterinarian as soon as possible. Bring your dog into the clinic for an examination. If the ingestion occurred within a few hours, your vet will likely induce vomiting and administer activated charcoal to bind the toxins. Medications may be given to stabilize the circulatory and central nervous systems, and in some cases, your pup may require ongoing supportive care from the vet and may need to stay in the hospital for observation.
