If your cat swallows a string, you should take it to the vet.The cat's intestines can become tangled in strings, causing problems such as lacerations and even death.If caught early, the cat may not need surgery to remove the string, but surgery may become a necessity.Your vet will know what to do.
Step 1: Put the problem in the hands of the vet.
You have to give the vet as much information as you can.Let the vet know how long the string was when the cat swallowed it.The vet can tell you how to move forward.
Step 2: Prepare for a physical exam.
A physical exam will be performed by the vet.The vet will check the cat's mouth and tongue when string is wrapped around its tongue.The vet will need to gently restrain your cat to examine it.Cats that are frightened need to be snoozed for a more thorough exam.Your vet will be able to explore the extent of the problem if you do this.
Step 3: Ask about the x-rays.
Your cat will usually need x-rays with this condition.The vet can use an x-ray to see where the string is in the cat.Sometimes strings may not show up clearly on a plain radiograph, so the vet may use barium to enhance the x-ray.
Step 4: Your cat will need fluids and pain management.
The vet will need to give your cat fluids if it has had a lot of vomiting.The vet will give the cat pain medications if it is in a lot of pain.
Step 5: The vet may induce vomiting.
One way to make the cat vomit is to remove strings.If the object hasn't gotten too far in the cat's stomach, this method is usually used.If you don't get explicit instructions from your vet, you can do more harm than good.
Step 6: Ask about an exam.
A tube is inserted into a cat's mouth.The vet will use a tube.Depending on where the object is, this treatment might not be appropriate.If your vet is part of an emergency practice, they may be able to perform the endoscopy.If they don't have the ability to do it, they may refer you to a clinic that does.
Step 7: It's possible that surgery is the only option.
It is possible that the string got into the cat's gut.In many cases, the only treatment is surgery to remove the string.Your cat may face a long and difficult hospitalization if the string has damaged his intestines.There is a chance that the cat will need to be euthanized if the internal damage is severe.
Step 8: Don't pull the string from the cat's anus.
You may be tempted to pull the string out of the cat's rear end if you see it.If the other end is stuck inside the cat, you could cause more damage.While another person holds the cat, you can gently tug on the string.It's good if it comes out.If you feel resistance, stop immediately.You can cut the string to leave an inch or two.Don't try to catch any of the skin.
Step 9: If the string is in the cat's mouth, don't pull it.
If you see a string under the cat's tongue, don't try to remove it.You don't know how long the other end of the string is, and it could be in the cat's stomach.
Step 10: If you don't take the cat in, watch its bathroom habits.
If you keep the cat at home, keep an eye on the bathroom breaks.If your cat cries while going to the bathroom, it's a good sign that you need to take the cat to a vet.
Step 11: If you don't take the cat to the vet, check on its behavior.
Vomiting and loss of appetite are signs that it's time to take the cat to the vet.It is time to take your cat in if it seems sluggish.
Step 12: Take a look at the cat's tongue.
It's time to go to the vet if your cat develops a purple tongue.A purple tongue indicates that the string has wrapped around the tongue and cut off the blood supply.