Grains & bread
Can dogs eat corn?
The kernels are fine in small amounts, but never give a dog corn on the cob. Swallowed cob pieces are a common cause of intestinal blockages that need surgery.
Why Cob pieces (blockage risk); butter and salt
By Maya HartIf your dog ate some
- If your dog swallowed a piece of corn cob, call your vet — even if they seem fine, cobs often cause a blockage a day or two later.
- Do not make your dog sick.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting, especially repeated
- Loss of appetite
- Straining or not passing stools
- Belly pain
How much, how often
A spoonful of plain kernels.
Treats of any kind should stay under 10% of the day’s calories. Work out your pet’s calories
Serving it safely
- Plain kernels only, cut off the cob
- No butter or salt
- Put cobs straight in a closed bin
Dogs and cats, side by side
Dogs In moderation
The kernels are fine in small amounts, but never give a dog corn on the cob. Swallowed cob pieces are a common cause of intestinal blockages that need surgery.
How much: A spoonful of plain kernels.
Cats In moderation
A few plain kernels are not harmful to cats, but they are not needed and are hard to digest.
How much: A few kernels at most.
Can cats eat corn?The details
Corn cobs are one of the most common causes of intestinal blockage in dogs in summer. They are the perfect size to swallow, do not break down in the stomach, and often lodge in the small intestine. Signs may not start until the next day. Barbecues and picnics are the usual scene.
Safer treats your dog can have instead
Questions owners ask
Can dogs eat corn?
The kernels are fine in small amounts, but never give a dog corn on the cob. Swallowed cob pieces are a common cause of intestinal blockages that need surgery.
How much corn can a dog have?
A spoonful of plain kernels.
What makes corn risky for dogs?
Cob pieces (blockage risk); butter and salt.
What are the signs to watch for in dogs?
vomiting, especially repeated, loss of appetite, straining or not passing stools, belly pain.
What should I do if my dog ate corn?
If your dog swallowed a piece of corn cob, call your vet — even if they seem fine, cobs often cause a blockage a day or two later. Do not make your dog sick.
Is corn safe for cats too?
A few plain kernels are not harmful to cats, but they are not needed and are hard to digest.
Sources
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts
More foods for dogs
Rice
Popcorn
- Dogs
- In moderation
- Cats
- In moderation
Raw bread dough
Bread
- Dogs
- In moderation
- Cats
- In moderation