High🐱
My cat swallowed string or an elastic
Linear foreign bodies (string, dental floss, elastic) can saw through a cat's intestines. A common surgical emergency.
Symptoms within 12–48 h.
Danger
High
Timing
Symptoms within 12–48 h.
Severity
Vet advice required
Symptoms to watch
- Repeated vomiting
- Refusal to eat
- Thread visible under tongue or at anus
- Painful abdomen
Do immediately
- 1NEVER pull on a visible thread: risk of internal cuts.
- 2Rush to the vet for an X-ray/ultrasound.
Absolutely avoid
- Do not feed.
- Do not induce vomiting.
When to call the vet
Potential surgical emergency.
FAQ
Should I wait for symptoms?
No. In pet emergencies, symptoms can be delayed: call a vet as soon as exposure or doubt occurs.
Can I give a home remedy?
Avoid home remedies without veterinary advice: some worsen poisoning, pain or aspiration risk.
Prevention tips
- Keep medicines, toxins and small objects in closed cabinets.
- Watch for changes in appetite, stool, breathing or behaviour.
- Prepare a card with weight, history and vet contact for your pet.
Other emergencies to know
This content is educational and does not replace a veterinary consultation.