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My cat ate a plastic garbage bag. What should I do right away?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 8 years and 6 months old | 15 lbs

My cat ate part of a plastic garbage bag. What should I do?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on October 23rd, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! If this just happened within the last 2 hours, you could consider taking him to a veterinarian to try to induce vomiting to retrieve this piece of plastic. Otherwise, watch him closely for signs of a gastrointestinal obstruction such as inappetence, vomiting and/or abdominal pain. If observed, have him evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment as this may need medical help. Good luck!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on May 25th, 2018

    Hi there. It's likely that this will pass through his system without causing any problems. But to be safe, you should monitor him for the next few days for any signs of an intestinal blockage, such as repeated episodes of vomiting, not wanting to eat, or acting lethargic. If you see any of these symptoms, then I would definitely take him to the vet for an exam. As long as he's acting normal, you shouldn't need to worry :)

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 15th, 2017

    Oh no, Nyx! I'm glad to hear that she currently seems to be fine. If she ingested plastic there is a chance that it could cause an intestinal obstruction or that it could pass in her stool. At this point, it is too late to induce vomiting. If she has not developed an obstruction, she may not even have any changes apparent on x-rays. At this point, I recommend closely monitoring her for vomiting, changes in appetite, or lethargy. If you notice anything unusual, she should see an ER vet immediately for evaluation. Hopefully it passes without incident!

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