Assuming iron-based oxygen absorbers contain a 50% concentration of elemental iron in a bioavailable form, a 5-kg dog would only need to ingest 0.1–0.3 g of the contents to exceed a toxic dose (20–60 mg/kg elemental iron). Likewise, a 15-kg child or dog need only ingest 0.3–0.9 g of contents to exceed the same dose. As the typical sizes of oxygen scavenger sachets range from 2–30 g (net weight), the ingestion of such an amount is easily conceivable.
As evidenced by the patient’s clinical signs, serum iron concentrations, radiographic evidence, and exposure history, the dog was diagnosed with iron intoxication secondary to the ingestion of iron-based oxygen absorbers. This case demonstrates that the reduced iron contained in oxygen absorbers, when ingested, can result in iron intoxication. Human and veterinary medical personnel need to be aware of this effect and monitor serum iron concentrations as chelation may be necessary.