Why a kitty or doggie playing with yarn isn’t so cute.
Hey, pet lovers! Today we want to talk to you about a common household item that can pose a serious threat to your furry friends: string. Yes, you heard right. String, yarn, ribbon, thread, floss, clothing, rope toys, rugs that have frayed and other similar items can be very dangerous for your dog or cat if they swallow them. Here’s why.
When your pet swallows a long piece of string, it can get stuck in their digestive tract and cause a condition called linear foreign body. This means that the string can bunch up the intestines like a cinch and create a blockage, or worse, cut through the intestinal wall and cause internal bleeding or infection. This is a life-threatening situation that requires immediate veterinary attention.
Some signs that your pet may have swallowed a string include:
– Vomiting or gagging
– Loss of appetite
– Lethargy or depression
– Abdominal pain
If you notice any of these symptoms in your pet, don’t wait. Call your vet right away and tell them what happened. They may need to perform an x-ray, ultrasound, or endoscopy to locate and remove the string. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.
The best way to prevent this from happening is to keep all string-like items out of your pet’s reach. Don’t leave them lying around on the floor, couch, bed, or table. Store them in closed containers or drawers. Don’t let your pet play with them unsupervised. If you see your pet chewing on a string, take it away immediately and check their mouth for any remnants.
String may seem like a harmless toy for your pet, but it can have serious consequences if swallowed. If your pet has eaten string once, they will do it again and again! Be vigilant and keep your pet safe from this hidden danger.
For a list of helpful resources for you and your pet, click here.