If your dog just ate Saran Wrap (plastic cling film), you might be panicking—and rightfully so. While it’s not immediately toxic, Saran Wrap can be very dangerous if it causes a blockage, wraps around organs, or traps food inside the digestive tract. In this article, we’ll walk you through what to do right now, what signs to monitor, and when to take your dog to the vet.
Is Saran Wrap Dangerous for Dogs?
Yes, Saran Wrap can be dangerous for dogs, especially if a large piece was ingested or if it was wrapped around food that encouraged your dog to gulp it down without chewing. While the plastic itself is not toxic, it’s indigestible and may cause serious gastrointestinal complications such as:
- Choking
- Stomach or intestinal blockage
- Gastrointestinal irritation or injury
- Trapped bacteria or food remnants causing infection
Some dogs may pass small amounts of Saran Wrap naturally, but in many cases, the material can get lodged in the digestive tract, causing symptoms that require immediate medical attention.
What to Do Immediately If Your Dog Ate Saran Wrap
If your dog just swallowed plastic wrap, quick action and calm observation are key.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Assess how much was eaten. Was it a tiny piece or an entire sheet? Did it contain any food, fat, or grease?
- Do NOT induce vomiting unless your vet instructs you to. Plastic wrap may tangle in the throat or esophagus during vomiting and cause more damage.
- Call your vet, especially if your dog is small or if a large amount was swallowed.
- Watch for any changes in behavior, appetite, or bowel movements. These are early signs of internal issues.
Many dogs swallow Saran Wrap when scavenging leftovers. If it was greasy, oily, or wrapped around cooked bones, the risks are even higher due to the added choking and toxicity hazards.
Symptoms of a Blockage from Saran Wrap
Blockages don’t always happen immediately. Symptoms can appear hours or even days after ingestion.
Watch for These Warning Signs:
- Repeated vomiting (especially if it includes bile or undigested food)
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy or weakness
- Abdominal bloating or pain (your dog may cry when touched)
- Straining to defecate without results
- Restlessness, pacing, or hiding
If your dog shows any of the above, contact your veterinarian immediately. An intestinal obstruction can become life-threatening within 24 to 72 hours.
Can Dogs Pass Saran Wrap Naturally?
Sometimes, yes—but not always. The odds depend on:
- The size and breed of the dog
- The amount of plastic ingested
- Whether the dog chewed it into smaller pieces or swallowed it whole
- What the Saran Wrap was covering (food, bone, grease, etc.)
Small pieces may pass within 2–3 days. Large, balled-up sheets are more likely to create an impaction that won’t move on its own. Always consult your vet before waiting it out.
What Your Vet Might Do
If you bring your dog in after eating Saran Wrap, your vet will likely perform the following:
- Physical exam: Checking for pain, bloating, or tenderness
- X-rays or ultrasound: To determine if there’s a blockage or trapped gas
- Induced vomiting or endoscopy: In early cases, to safely remove material from the stomach
- Surgery: If the wrap has caused a blockage that cannot be passed naturally
Early intervention reduces risk and may prevent the need for invasive procedures.
How Long Should You Wait to See a Vet?
If your dog shows no symptoms and only ate a small piece, monitor for 24–72 hours under veterinary guidance. However, if your dog is:
- Very small (toy breeds)
- Has a history of GI issues
- Ate a large amount or plastic-wrapped food
Then it’s better to seek veterinary help as soon as possible.
Why Do Dogs Eat Plastic Wrap?
Dogs eat plastic wrap for a variety of reasons—most of which are behavioral, sensory, or stress-driven.
Common Causes:
- Smell of food: Grease or leftover food smells irresistible to dogs
- Scavenging behavior: Dogs are opportunistic eaters, especially when unsupervised
- Boredom or anxiety: Dogs often chew or ingest strange objects when under-stimulated or emotionally distressed
- Pica: A compulsive condition where dogs eat non-food items like plastic, cloth, or paper
If your dog has a habit of chewing or eating inedible objects like Saran Wrap, socks, or string, the issue may be deeper than simple curiosity. The Solve Dog Reactivity AutoWebinar can help address behavioral triggers and emotional stress driving these risky behaviors—without punishment or guesswork.
How to Prevent This from Happening Again
Preventing access to plastic wrap is the best solution—but training and enrichment are also key.
Steps to Reduce Risk:
- Never leave food-covered items in trash bins your dog can reach
- Use locking trash cans or place them in cabinets
- Supervise counter-surfing dogs or restrict access to kitchens when unsupervised
- Teach a reliable “leave it” command
- Provide chew-safe toys and puzzle feeders to curb boredom
Dogs that engage in frequent scavenging behaviors need a combination of prevention, management, and behavioral guidance to stay safe.
What If the Wrap Was Microwaved or Melted?
If your dog ate Saran Wrap that was used for cooking or had melted onto food, this may introduce additional risks. Melted plastics can release chemicals that irritate the stomach or intestines. Additionally, the heated wrap may be more compact, sticky, or sharp-edged—making it harder to pass.
In this case, you should contact your vet immediately, even if your dog seems okay at first.
Cost of Veterinary Treatment for Saran Wrap Ingestion
The cost will depend on the level of care needed, but here are general estimates:
- Initial exam & imaging: $250–$600
- Endoscopy (if needed): $800–$1,500
- Surgery for blockage: $2,000–$5,000+
These costs emphasize the value of prevention, especially for dogs with a history of eating unsafe objects.
Conclusion
If your dog ate Saran Wrap, you need to take it seriously. While some dogs may pass it naturally, the risk of intestinal blockage or injury is real—especially with larger amounts or in smaller breeds. Monitor your dog closely, consult your vet, and never assume it’ll be fine without a professional opinion.
Does your dog repeatedly eat strange objects or display anxiety-driven chewing? That’s a sign it’s time to address the root cause, not just the symptoms. Watch the free Solve Dog Reactivity AutoWebinar to learn calm, proven strategies to stop destructive behavior and help your dog feel secure, balanced, and in control.