As temperatures drop, many people use single-use hand warmers like HotHands® to stay warm. However, these small packets can pose a serious danger to dogs if chewed or swallowed. The primary concern is iron toxicity, though all parts of the warmer—including the fabric pouch—can make your dog ill.
Composition of Hand Warmers
Hand warmers typically contain:
- Iron powder
- Activated charcoal
- Salt
- Vermiculite or sawdust
- Water
When exposed to air, the iron powder oxidizes, producing heat for several hours. Once the reaction finishes, the iron converts to iron oxide, which is less reactive but can still irritate your dog’s digestive tract if eaten.
What Happens If a Dog Eats a Hand Warmer?
Dogs that chew or swallow hand warmers are at risk for:
- Gastrointestinal irritation (vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain)
- Iron poisoning, if enough iron is absorbed into the bloodstream
- Intestinal blockage, if the pouch or contents clump together
How Iron Toxicity Develops
Iron is normally absorbed through the intestines. A large overdose can damage the intestinal lining, allowing excessive iron to enter the body. This excess iron can then damage vital organs, especially the liver and heart.
Symptoms of Hand Warmer Poisoning
Early signs (within hours):
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Lethargy
Severe symptoms (as toxicity progresses):
- Weakness or collapse
- Rapid or labored breathing
- Low blood pressure
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Liver failure or death
What To Do If Your Dog Ate a Hand Warmer
- Remove all remnants of the hand warmer to prevent further ingestion.
- Estimate how much of the product your dog might have eaten.
- Call a veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline® at 1-855-764-7661 immediately.
If your dog is not showing severe symptoms (like collapse or difficulty breathing), a poison control specialist can help determine whether home monitoring or emergency treatment is needed.
If your dog shows severe signs, seek emergency veterinary care right away.
Treatment of Hand Warmer Toxicity in Dogs
Treatment depends on:
- How much iron your dog ingested
- How recently ingestion occurred
- Your dog’s symptoms
Possible Treatments
- Induced vomiting (within 2 hours of ingestion, under professional supervision)
- Medications to protect the stomach and intestines:
- Famotidine or omeprazole (acid reducers)
- Maropitant or ondansetron (anti-nausea)
- Sucralfate (to coat and protect stomach lining)
- IV fluids and hospitalization in severe cases
- Liver support (SAM-e supplements like Denamarin® or Denosyl®)
Do not attempt to make your dog vomit without veterinary guidance. Improperly inducing vomiting can lead to aspiration or gastrointestinal injury.
Recovery of Hand Warmer Toxicity in Dogs
- Mild cases (small amounts ingested):
Dogs typically recover within 24 hours with supportive care. - Severe cases (large amounts or heavy iron exposure):
May require several days of hospitalization and continued medication at home.
Your vet may recommend follow-up blood work to ensure organ function has returned to normal.
Prevention of Hand Warmer Toxicity in Dogs
Dogs may be drawn to hand warmers due to their smell or curiosity. Prevent accidents by:
- Storing unused hand warmers in closed drawers or on high shelves.
- Immediately disposing of used warmers in a lidded trash can.
- Checking coat pockets and shoes after use to ensure none are left behind.
A little extra caution can keep your dog safe and healthy during the cold-weather season.
FAQs
Are hand warmers toxic to dogs?
Yes. Hand warmers contain iron powder, which can cause iron poisoning if ingested by dogs. Even the outer fabric and other ingredients can irritate the stomach and cause vomiting or diarrhea.
What should I do if my dog ate a hand warmer?
Immediately remove any remaining hand warmers and call your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline® at 1-855-764-7661. Do not try to induce vomiting unless instructed by a vet.
What are the symptoms of iron poisoning in dogs?
Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, dogs may experience weakness, collapse, or liver failure.
Can dogs recover after eating a hand warmer?
Yes, most dogs recover with prompt veterinary care. Mild cases may resolve within 24 hours, but severe poisonings may require hospitalization and follow-up blood tests.
How can I prevent my dog from eating hand warmers?
Store unused hand warmers in closed drawers or high shelves. Dispose of used warmers in lidded trash cans and check coat pockets and shoes to ensure none are left within your dog’s reach.
