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My cat swallowed plastic. Will he pass it or throw it up? Is he okay?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 2 years and 2 months old | 12 lbs

Hi, the picture is the plastic from Mio water flavor drops, I cut it off to about the same size as what my cat swollowed last night. He is 2 years old. I am usually very careful with this stuff, it won't happen again. It's not hard or anything, but more coarse than a plastic bag. His behavior hasn't changed at all, jumping and running around, and he is drinking plenty of water and eating food like normal, is this something that he will just pass? Oh will he throw it up? Thanks.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on October 21st, 2017

Hi there and thanks for posting. Linear objects can cause an obstruction and sometimes symptoms can be delayed. After ingestion, it takes about 2 hours for the object or material to pass from the stomach into the intestinal tract, so if he ingested this yesterday, it is likely in his intestinal tract or he may have passed it. If he passes it in the next 24 hours, then he should be fine, but if not, then you may need to take him into his vet for an x-ray to ensure there is not an obstruction especially if he starts becoming disinterested in eating or start vomiting or experiencing diarrhea or lethargy. Feeding a little extra fiber in the diet can help, such as adding plain canned pumpkin (not the pie filling) to his food can help move things along, but I would still have a veterinarian examine him if this has not passed in the next 24 hours. I hope this helps and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Oh that was naughty of Larry to eat that piece of plastic! It's not very large, and it's something that I would expect to pass without problem. There is always the chance it could cause an obstruction, and if that occurs, you will see vomiting, lethargy, anorexia, and possibly diarrhea. If you see any of those signs, please take him into a vet right away. Otherwise, it should hopefully pass! I hope this helps!

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