My cat ate a water-expanding toy. Should I be concerned?

If Atlas seems OK, I would keep an eye on him while you continue to search for the item. Signs to look out for of a possible obstruction include vomiting, diarrhea, attempting to vomit without being able to, loss of appetite, lethargy or pain in the abdomen. A cat that isn't feeling well may also try to hide or become less social. If you do see these signs, or suspect that the item was ingested, it is best to bring Atlas into your vet for care.

Generally, the plastic of cat toys is fairly thin and flexible, but if it is hard with sharp edges, it is certainly possible that it can cause problems similar to a bone. If Mia vomited the toy, hopefully this will not be an issue. If Mia continues to vomit, does not eat, does not seem to feel well or is straining to defecate, I would certainly have your veterinarian examine her. Good luck! I hope that was helpful and that Mia will be fine. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Hi there and thank you for using Pet Coach to address your concern. If Chester is acting normal and there is no vomiting, abdominal pain, lethargy or inappetance then I would monitor for now. If you do start to notice any of these changes, I would get Chester in to see a veterinarian to have an examination and abdominal x-rays or abdominal ultrasound to see if there is an intestinal obstruction due to the ingested toy. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns. I am also available via consultation if needed.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Ingestion of cotton stuffing from toys and such can be an issue if it causes an obstruction in the intestines. This can be extremely uncomfortable and even result in a torsion or perforation. Fortunately, if it a small enough amount, it will typically pass. I recommend keeping a close eye on Jasper for vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, or lethargy as these may be signs of an obstruction. I’m happy to answer any other questions you may have!

What a cute cat ! The only way to make sure she does not eat these things is to remove these things from the house or keep them put away so she cannot get to them. If she continues eating this type of material, she may have serious GI issues or a blockage.

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about ACe. He's a big dog and that size toy may pass without problem. I'd just keep an eye on him for now. If you see vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or a loss of appetite, have him seen by a vet right away. I hope this helps!

Unfortunately that could definitively cause gastrointestinal inflammation and obstruction, which may be completed. It is very likely that the signs you described are due to this foreign body. A check up and some form of imaging (radiographs or better ultrasound) are definitively needed to confirm my clinical suspicion and treat appropriately. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.