What happens if a cat eats bones? - briefly
If a cat ingests bones, there is a risk of choking or internal injury, as bones can cause blockages or puncture the digestive tract. Immediate veterinary attention is essential to prevent serious complications.
What happens if a cat eats bones? - in detail
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their diet should primarily consist of meat. While they can sometimes consume small amounts of bone from raw meat or fish, eating cooked bones or large pieces of bone can pose significant risks. Here's what happens if a cat eats bones:
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Choking Hazard: The primary and most immediate risk is that the bone could become lodged in the cat's throat or esophagus, causing choking. Bones are rigid and do not soften or break down easily in a cat's digestive system. If a cat swallows a piece of bone that is too large to pass through its esophagus, it can cause an obstruction, which is a medical emergency.
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Digestive Issues: Even if the bone manages to pass through the esophagus and into the stomach, it can still cause problems. Bones are not digestible by cats and will remain intact as they move through the digestive system. This can lead to various issues:
- Intestinal Blockage: If a large enough piece of bone reaches the intestines, it can cause a blockage. This is extremely dangerous and requires immediate veterinary attention. Symptoms include vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and constipation.
- Perforation: Sharp or pointed bones could potentially perforate the digestive tract, leading to severe internal damage and infection. This is a life-threatening condition that requires emergency surgery.
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Constipation: Smaller pieces of bone might pass through the digestive system without causing an obstruction but can still lead to constipation. Cats have difficulty passing undigested material, which can cause discomfort and potentially lead to other issues like impaction or megacolon.
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Dental Health: While not directly related to eating bones, it's important to note that raw bones from meat or fish can help maintain dental health in cats by acting as a natural toothbrush. However, this benefit comes with risks, and it is generally advised to only give raw bones under veterinary guidance.
If you suspect your cat has eaten a bone, especially if it's large or cooked, it's crucial to monitor for any signs of distress such as difficulty breathing, excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, or persistent vomiting. If any of these symptoms occur, contact your veterinarian immediately. Prevention is key: always ensure that bones are kept out of reach and provide a balanced diet suitable for cats to minimize the risk of such incidents.