Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
PUT AWAY THE TOYS
I have observed my own cats' attempts to swallow the string on
their fishing pole toys. I now keep the toys in a closed closet when-
ever they are not in use.To protect your cat from potentially dan-
gerous objects, such as toys with strings, sewing materials, ribbon
and newspaper ties, store them in a secure place.
of them. They chase and pounce on a quick moving object and then
ingest it as they would captured prey.
Another possible explanation is boredom. Cats like to indulge in
attention-seeking behaviors. Some cats even seem to like being scolded
and chased away from trouble. Playing with items they fish out of trash
cans can be a game, as well. Unraveling balls of yarn or pulling apart a
carpet or drape can be lots of fun. It is even more fun for the cat when
you yell and run after him!
Early detection of foreign bodies means they can be successfully
removed from the stomach and intestines of the cat. If not found
promptly, foreign bodies can cause the intestines to become blocked
or coiled, which can progress to intestinal rupture—a life-threatening
situation. Some foreign objects can be easily found on an X ray, while
others cannot and may not be found without exploratory surgery.
Although it may sound extreme, if you have a cat who is unable to
hold down food or water, exploratory surgery can be the best way to
find a foreign body that cannot be seen on an X ray.The risk of wait-
ing for other diagnostic tests that may (or may not) show the problem
can outweigh the risk of surgery.
GETTING TO THE BOX
Diarrhea is another common problem in cats. It can have many of the
same causes as vomiting, and it requires the same diagnostic work-up.
If your cat has diarrhea, a veterinarian will want to examine the cat and
a fecal sample, because parasites are a frequent cause of diarrhea. If a
fecal check is negative and the animal's physical exam is relatively nor-
mal, other diagnostic tests should be considered.
