My cat swallowed string 2 days ago. What symptoms should I watch for?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 11 months and 13 days old | 8 lbs
So I think my cat swallowed some string 2 days ago. I didn't actually see her do it but she was dragging the yarn around and end was frayed and a little wet. How long until I am in the clear with her. She is eating and drinking normally and has gone to the cat box at least once but no string and don't ask me how I know that haha. I'm just a little freaked out :(
5 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on April 14th, 2017
Just monitor her for the moment; unfortunately strings and any type of linear foreign body can sit in the intestine and stomach for ages before coming out!. As long as she eating fine and drinking ok and passing feces and urine normally and being normal in terms of demeanor and activity level she will be ok and she won't need any check up. You could potentially give her some mineral oil (2mls every meal )like paraffin oil to lubricate the gastrointestinal canal and help to get rid of the strings if there. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation (where you can post pictures ) if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on August 15th, 2017
Oh no, it was naughty of K to eat that string! It can take up to at least 72 hours before this string has passed. The problem with string is that can cause a linear foreign body, and it can cause vomiting, anorexia, and depression. I would keep an eye on her and her feces over the next couple of days, and if you don't see the string, I would take her into the vet for a health check. If you see any of the signs I mentioned above, then take her into a vet immediately. Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do to help it pass, hopefully it will just pass on it's own.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on August 13th, 2018
This is extremely serious. Your cat very likely has a string obstruction where part of the string is still stuck in her intestinal tract. Since she is not acting right, she probably has a high fever and feels terrible. This could very easily kill her if she does not see a vet right away. She needs to have abdominal Xrays and bloodwork to see how sick she is from the possible infection and to see where the string could be causing problems. She may need to have emergency surgery to remove the string, examine the intestines involved, and potentially save her life. Please take her to an emergency veterinarian right away!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on October 27th, 2019
I'm very sorry to hear this happened. Ingesting a string is an emergency - she needs surgery. If you can't afford surgery then she should be humanely euthanized so she doesn't suffer. I'm sorry but those are your only two options. This cannot be treated at home. I wish I could tell you something different but unfortunately I can't.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on July 22nd, 2018
Hi and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! String can cause serious gastrointestinal obstructions in cats. It is good you saw some part of the string in his stool yesterday, but there still may be more string in his gastrointestinal tract. The laxatone can help move things along and may help here, but I would keep a close eye on Munchkin and if you notice he is continuing to vomit, experience diarrhea, and/or become lethargic, I would recommend taking him in to see his veterinarian. He may need an x-ray or ultrasound of his abdomen to check for an obstruction. I hope this helps and best of luck to you and Munchkin!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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