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My kitten ate string 20 minutes ago. What to do if I can't see a vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | 2 months and 17 days old

My 2 month and a half old kitten has eaten a string around 20minutes ago what should I do because I cannot go to the vets

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on October 21st, 2017

Hi and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Ingested string is a very serious concern as it has the potential to cause an obstruction in the gastrointestinal tract which may require surgery. You will need to visit your nearest emergency veterinarian to induce vomiting as soon as possible. After 2 hours, inducing vomiting will have little to no effect as the string will have likely passed through her stomach.

Best of luck to you and Oreo!
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on March 7th, 2020

    If he ate it within the past 2 hours, have him seen by your veterinarian or at the nearest veterinary ER. Either can induce vomiting via injection to get the string out. Leo may pass it on his own, but if it gets caught up inside him, he may need emergency surgery to remove it. Monitor for lethargy, vomiting, loss of appetite or abdominal pain.

    Vote Icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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