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Choking

A curious cat or playful kitten may become a choking victim when bones, string or other objects become lodged in the cat’s throat. If this occurs, he may paw at his mouth, gag and drool. Unconsciousness may follow if complete obstruction persists.

Be careful to avoid being bitten. If possible, have someone help you. Hold the cat upside down, press his chest with both hands until the object pops out.

Caution : Never attempt to remove string, thread or a needle to which a thread could be attached. These kind of obstructions should be removed by a veterinarian. If a linear object such as string or thread is lodged with one end in the mouth and the other end in the stomach and intestines, the material can cut through the walls of the intestines.

If the cat is unconscious, open his mouth and look for the obstruction. Remove it with needle-nose pliers. If you cannot do this, rush the cat to your veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic.

In rural areas, remember that rabies can also cause signs of choking. Use great caution in handling a cat who is not known to you.