Steps To Take When You Notice String Hanging From Your Cat's Behind
Posted on: 15 January 2016
Many cats enjoying playing with a piece of string. If you dangle a piece in front of them, they will most likely give it a bat with their paw and perhaps try taking a nip. What happens when a cat gets a hold of a piece of string when you are not monitoring their activity though? In some instances, they may swallow the entire piece. If you happen to see a piece of string hanging from underneath your cat's tail as it makes its way through the digestive system, you will need to take proper steps in having it removed without harming your cat in the process. Here are some steps to follow when dealing with this embarrassing predicament.
To Tug Or Not To Tug?
It may seem like pulling the string to remove it from your pet's rear end would be the right way to end the string saga. This however could cause damage to your cat's intestinal system and rectum if it is not done gently. Have someone hold your cat while you gently pull the string. If it comes out, great! If there is any resistance at all, stop immediately.
Remove The Excess
Your cat may be quite agitated with the feeling of string dangling around near their back legs. They may also be afraid when they try using their litter box as the string may be felt as they try to eliminate. To help relieve your pet's anxiety, cutting the string would be best. Have someone help you hold your cat while you carefully cut the string with scissors an inch or two from where it is protruding from the anus. This will allow you to observe the length to see if it is getting longer after your cat uses the litter box.
Take A Trip To The Doctor
The best way to handle this type of situation is to bring your cat to the veterinarian if the string does not come out when you try the gentle tug. Make sure to save the piece of string you had cut so you can show it to the veterinarian. They will then know what type of material they are dealing with and it may help them determine if the string will be able to pass through the body or if surgery will be needed. In some instances the veterinarian may recommend giving the cat petroleum jelly orally to help make the intestinal tract slick. The veterinarian might be able to see the string by doing an X-ray. If there is an obstruction, the cat will most likely need surgery.
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