Expanding Glue Exposure in Pets

What are expanding glues?

All glues containing isocyanate and diisocyanate can expand. The Original Gorilla Glue® is a well-known manufacturer of diisocyanates, but these compounds are also present in other glues such Loctite® and Elmer’s Probond®. Isocyanates found in polyurethane glues also expand, but not to the same extent. Not all forms of Gorilla Glue® contain expanding glues, so it is important to identify the ingredients within each brand.

Pets exposed to a very small amount of wet or liquid expanding glue, anything more than a lick for a medium-sized dog, may consume enough product to be problematic. The glue expands to form a large, foreign body in the stomach. Dried, expanded glue is not expected to further expand in the stomach. However, as little as a half teaspoon of wet glue has been reported to expand to a size large enough to form an obstruction. 

Pets may also be at risk of developing respiratory effects if they are left in an enclosed space where the glue is drying. Prolonged exposure may cause respiratory irritation, especially if the pet has underlying asthma or other sensitivity.

What are the clinical signs of expanding glue exposure?

When a pet ingests expanding glue, the most common outcome is a foreign body obstruction due to a mass of expanded glue in the stomach. Common signs include:

• Anorexia (not eating or reduced appetite)
• Abdominal pain or distension
• Vomiting (occasionally with blood)
• Lethargy

It is recommended to consult your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline, a 24/7 animal poison center, at 1-800-213-6680 if your pet ingests a wet glue containing isocyanate or diisocyanate.

Occasionally, pets that have inhaled expanding glue may experience coughing, sneezing, and an increase in secretions, including drooling and nasal discharge. Prolonged exposure may cause asthma or bronchitis-like signs. If the pet’s skin or eyes are exposed, they may experience irritation, redness, and sensitivity.

How are expanding glue exposures diagnosed?

Veterinarians diagnose expanding glue exposure in pets that have a history of exposure to these products, followed by X-rays that indicate a mass in the stomach. A glue mass is often noted within 3 to 12 hours of exposure, and a foreign body obstruction is generally evident within 12 to 24 hours of ingestion.

How are expanding glue exposures treated?

Do not feed your pet or offer anything to decontaminate until you have consulted your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline. Once your veterinarian has done abdominal X-rays to confirm the presence of a glue mass and obstruction, then surgery is required to remove the mass. Endoscopy can be done in mild cases. Hospitalization will likely be recommended to monitor vital signs and provide fluid therapy and gastrointestinal support.

What is the prognosis for expanding glue exposure?

The prognosis for recovery from expanding glue depends on the removal of the mass. If the glue mass is removed and the pet is supported for secondary clinical signs, such as vomiting and dehydration, the outcome is usually good. If you suspect your pet has been exposed to or ingested an expanding glue, call your veterinarian immediately or call Pet Poison Helpline, a 24/7 animal poison center, at 1-800-213-6680.

Pet Poison Helpline, an animal poison center based out of Minneapolis, MN, is available 24/7 for pet owners and veterinary professionals that require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. The staff provides treatment advice for poisoning cases of all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals, and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline’s per-incident fee includes follow-up consultations for the duration of the poison case. Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.