Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/tinsel-veterinarian-visits/

You’ve likely already read a number of articles on tips for keeping pets safe at Christmas, but did you know strings of tinsel ingested by cats and small dogs account for more veterinarian visits at the holidays than almost any other reason? Yes, tinsel, a holiday favorite for decorating Christmas trees everywhere. The reason it’s so harmful is that it can cause bowel obstruction in pets, and cats are particularly fond of it.

Cats and Tinsel

According to the Pet Poison Helpline, tinsel is a common cause of feline bowel obstruction. After a cat ingests the tinsel, they are unable to pass it through their intestines. Once stuck, the cat tries to vomit it out but cannot and will need surgery to remove the blockage. Cat lovers may want to go tinsel-free or tinsel-light until they know if their cat can resist the shiny temptation.

Why Tinsel?

The reason is simple: cats love dangling objects. When ingested, tinsel can wrap around the tongue or anchor itself in the stomach, making passage through the intestines impossible. Matters are made worse when the intestines contract and move, as tinsel can slowly cut through the tissue and cause severe damage to the intestinal tract. For all these reasons, it’s also best to keep ribbon, yarn, and thread stowed away.

Holiday Ribbons

As stated, ribbons are another pet problem. Ribbon ingestion commonly causes a linear or string foreign body obstruction. This is a particularly dangerous type of obstruction because once stuck, the ribbon becomes taught and acts like a saw against the side of the intestine. Cats with this type of obstruction are good at hiding their illness and may continue to eat and drink for some time.

Happy Holidays!

Please have a happy and safe holiday season. If a furry friend gets into something they shouldn’t, you can call the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 and ask them anything. They’re available 24/7 and love hearing from pet owners, but remind people that prevention is always the best medicine and that a little planning can help keep your holiday less stressful. If it’s an obvious medical emergency, contact your vet or get them into the nearest pet ER clinic stat.

Watch the video compilation below for a good holiday laugh featuring mischievous felines.

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Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog