TailVilleWhy
Silica gel in laver, snack and shoe boxes is chemically stable and nearly non-toxic. Eating a lot may cause vomiting or stomach upset, and rarely a packet can block a small dog's gut. The real concern is look-alike oxygen absorbers found in jerky, pet treats and rice cakes, which contain iron powder and can cause iron poisoning.
How to give it / if eaten
If the packet says 'silica gel,' offer water and watch. If it says 'oxygen absorber' or 'iron,' or you're unsure what it is, call your vet right away. If a small pet swallowed the packet whole, watch for vomiting or constipation.
Watch for these signs
Silica gel usually causes nothing or mild vomiting and stomach upset. Oxygen absorbers can cause vomiting (possibly bloody), diarrhea, lethargy and belly pain, with possible liver damage later. If a packet was swallowed whole, watch for repeated vomiting and constipation.
FAQ
My dog ate the desiccant from a laver pack.
Laver packs usually contain silica gel or quicklime desiccant. Quicklime (calcium oxide) reacts with water and can burn, so check the label, and call your vet if it's quicklime or you're not sure.
How do I tell an oxygen absorber from silica gel?
Read the label. Silica gel looks like clear or colored beads, while oxygen absorbers usually contain dark gray powder and may stick to a magnet.
General information only. Weight, age and health conditions change how a pet reacts, so ask your vet if you are worried.