We’ve all had that moment: you turn around for just one second and suddenly your pet looks suspiciously guilty. You check their mouth…nothing.
Later, the X-ray reveals the shocking truth: your dog just swallowed an entire toy sloth.
Or maybe your cat decided last night’s party tinsel was today’s snack.
At AcutePet Urgent Care, we’ve seen it all–socks, coins, pacifiers, rubber ducks, car keys, tinsel, hair ties, and even toxic houseplants. Pets are curious (and occasionally part-time magicians), and sometimes their “snacks” land them in our exam rooms.
Why Pets Swallow Strange Things
- Dogs often gulp down socks, toys, or food wrappers. Puppies especially chew to explore, like toddlers with new teeth.
- Cats are notorious for playing with string-like objects like tinsel, ribbon, or even hair ties. Unfortunately, these items can become lodged in the stomach or intestines, leading to dangerous blockages that often require surgery. Houseplants are another common culprit, with many turning out to be toxic when chewed.
Seasonal Snacking & Disrupted Routines
This time of year often means hearty meals, extra guests, and busier schedules. While it’s fun for us, it can spell trouble for pets:
- Rich or fatty foods like gravy, turkey skin, or stuffing can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or even pancreatitis.
- Dropped scraps seem to vanish faster than you can say, “Who fed the dog?!”
- Guests with pets may bring food, treats, or medications that aren’t safe for your household pets.
- Routine changes–late walks, missed meals, or simply more excitement–can add stress, making curious pets even bolder.
A little extra vigilance during these festive times can save your furry family from a stomachache…or a trip to see us.
Of course, despite your best efforts, your sneaky pet might still manage to snag a stray food scrap or lost hair tie. When their curiosity leads to a stomachache (or worse), AcutePet is open 10-10 daily to provide same-day emergency care–so your pet can get back to safely exploring!
