Why is it risky?
String, yarn, thread, twine, ribbon, and similar linear materials are highly attractive to cats and represent one of the most dangerous household hazards. When swallowed, linear foreign bodies cause intestinal plication, the intestine bunches around the string, cutting off blood supply and causing necrosis and perforation. This is a surgical emergency with significant mortality.
Affected Systems
Digestive
Symptoms
Vomiting (often after eating), anorexia, abdominal pain, lethargy, depression. If perforation occurs: acute abdomen, fever, rapid deterioration, peritonitis is life-threatening.
What To Do
If string is visible from the mouth or anus: do NOT pull it. Emergency vet immediately. If string was swallowed but is not visible: vet visit for imaging. Do not wait for symptoms to develop.
Notes
This applies to: yarn, sewing thread, ribbon, tinsel, rubber bands, hair ties, elastic cord, fishing line, and any string components detached from toys. Cats often swallow string gradually and unnoticed during play. Check toys regularly for loose, fraying, or detached string components. This is not a medium-risk situation, it's high.
Sources
→ VCA Animal Hospitals (linear foreign body in cats) — vcahospitals.com
→ Cornell Feline Health Center — vet.cornell.edu
→ Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery