Oh The Things Your Animals Will Eat

September 15, 2017

From rubber duckies to sewing needles to shish kebab skewers, we’re constantly surprised by what pets decide they want to eat or call a delicious treat. And while we’re sure that you’d rather avoid a trip to the local emergency vet, when your pet gets ahold of something their not supposed to, it’s important that you do.

In some cases, you may have seen your beloved pet consume something like a rock or a child’s toy, but you were unable to stop them from swallowing it whole. In other cases, your pet may become ill will lethargy, vomiting, no appetite, or other worrisome signs that prompt you to bring your pet in quickly. Ingesting inappropriate substances or having an obstructed bowel is all too common, but we’re here to help when you need us most at Metropolitain Animal Specialty Hospital in LA. The following are just a few household objects that are commonly consumed by some of our most beloved pets.

Rocks

Rocks are probably one of the worst culprits for obstructed bowels in dogs, but dogs aren’t the only ones that will consume rocks they shouldn’t. Reptiles and amphibians have also been known to do the same. Whether your dog is looking for a chew toy or decides that it’s okay to gulp down a surprisingly tasty rock, more often than not, the offending stone will have to be surgically removed for the safety of the animal.

Coins

There is something about coins that will have just about any pet thinking they’re a great treat. It could be the oil on them or the metallic taste, but dogs, cats, reptiles, and amphibians have all been known to consume coins. If caught early on, induced regurgitation or endoscopic removal may be possible. For just a few coins, it may also be possible to let the coins pass through the animal’s system. But for a bunch, your pet is probably going to need surgery.

Kid’s Toys

Not only do your children love to play with their toys and stick them in their own mouths, but your pets probably enjoy doing just the same. More than one child’s toy has made it into the belly of the cherished family pet, and honestly, there probably wasn’t much you could do to stop it. But you can make sure your pet gets the best care when they need it.

Socks

One sock makes a bit of sense. Two socks, okay. Three socks, that’s getting to be a bit much. But 43.5 socks? Impossible. Not so impossible, according to VetrinaryPracticeNews.com. A great dane consumed 43.5 socks before experiencing severe signs of a bowel obstruction. One surgery later, and the dog is feeling much better, though I’m sure his family learned how important it is to pick up their socks from the floor.

Light Bulbs

While not common, there have been cases of dogs consuming light bulbs whole. The biggest concern with this is if the glass breaks. However, in some cases, the dog has passed the light bulb in clinic just fine. In other cases, vets may opt for surgery in order to reduce the risk of the glass breaking.

Car Keys

Maybe your pet is trying to tell you something when they ingest the car keys. They love you so much that they don’t want you to leave. While this may make it trickier to get to the vet, it’s just another item that can’t be left in your pet’s digestive tract.

Whenever your pet comes down sick, whether from an obstructed bowel or an allergic reaction, MASH is the emergency vet speciality team you want on your side. Call us immediately or bring your pet in anytime when you need help!