A forgotten hair tie, a bouquet of lilies given for a birthday, or a small toy lying on the floor can pose a danger to a cat living in an apartment, noted veterinarian Edward Wolf.
The veterinarian emphasized the small rubber toys that have become popular during supermarket promotions. With the increase in such offers, veterinary clinics have seen more cats coming in with foreign objects in their gastrointestinal tracts, the specialist reported. “These foreign objects have to be removed surgically. They will not come out naturally,” the expert said.
He urged cat owners to be vigilant about small items. Cats are very curious, and a small object can be swallowed. “A forgotten hair tie can lead to tragic consequences. This little thing can be the reason for your pet's death,” the veterinarian noted.
The doctor listed plants that are dangerous for cats. For example, in an apartment where a cat lives, one should not keep lilies, azaleas, ivy, dieffenbachia, and several other plants. “A cat only needs to lick a lily to develop acute kidney failure,” the specialist warned.
He also pointed out places that can be dangerous for cats. For example, pull-out sofas. Cats love to hide in cozy corners, and the gap in a pull-out sofa can become a trap for them. If the pet is not noticed in time, it can get crushed. Additionally, a cat may crawl into laundry that is being prepared for washing in the washing machine. “Not everyone checks the machine before pressing the ‘start’ button,” the veterinarian noted.
Sometimes, items or blankets scattered on the sofa become a resting place for a cat or kitten. “The animal burrows into the blanket, a person doesn’t notice this and sits on the sofa, crushing it,” the veterinarian provided as an example.
Furthermore, he reminded about the risks associated with windows. Windows opened in the vertical ventilation mode can become a deadly trap for a pet.
In the run-up to the New Year holidays, the veterinarian warned about the dangers of tinsel, garlands, and other Christmas decorations. Cats may swallow them. “If the tinsel or garland starts to come out naturally, do not pull on it to avoid damaging the intestines. Cut it and immediately consult a veterinarian,” the specialist explained.
