Don't Ignore These Signs of Foreign Body Obstruction in Your Cat

Sometimes curiosity really can spell bad times for the cat. They're curious creatures, and that often leads them to eat things they really shouldn't. Anything from string to coins can be eaten by your cat, and those objects might not make it successfully through the digestive system. When they don't, your cat will suffer from foreign body obstruction.

Here are just a few signs that might have happened.

Vomiting and Retching

A cat suffering from foreign body obstruction is going to struggle to keep down food since that body will be blocking part of the digestive system. Since food won't be able to pass as easily, your cat won't be digesting it right and may vomit as a result. Even if they aren't actually sick, they may continue to retch as if they expect to be.  

Abdominal Tenderness

If a foreign object has become trapped somewhere in your cat's digestive system, it's usually going to start producing pain. You might not be able to notice anything when you hold them around the belly, but the cat may show signs of pain or discomfort. In some cases, they will actually yelp and complain when you handle them. Most of the time, they will simply squirm away. If a previously cuddly cat no longer enjoys being held, foreign body obstruction could be the cause.

Loss of Energy

Cats generally prefer to hide any signs of illness, so they might not show any visible signs of pain. After all, why would a cat ever deign to show weakness to one of its servants? What you may notice instead is a sharp drop in energy levels. Cats often take to sleeping more and playing less when they are suffering some sort of internal problem, and they'll often go off to nap in the backs of closets and other out of the way places where they feel safe.

Problems Defecating

Problems defecating is usually one of the first signs your cat's body is harbouring a foreign object. They may seem to spend much longer than usual in the litter box and go there more often throughout the day. If you actually notice them trying to defecate, they may seem to be struggling. If you catch these signs, it's a good idea to check their litter tray a little more thoroughly than you normally would. If there's very little excrement, they are probably constipated, and foreign body obstruction is a common cause.

For more information on your options for vet surgery, contact your local animal hospital today.

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