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Cats sometimes choose to eat things they shouldn’t! Sometimes a cat may choose to eat some food she shouldn’t or eat a non-food item such as a candy wrapper! What would lead a cat to eat a candy wrapper? No one is certain. But can a candy wrapper make a cat sick?
Has your cat eaten a candy wrapper? Are you worried the candy wrapper will make your cat sick? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your cat eats something like this.
We’ve gathered information about candy wrappers and whether they can make a cat sick. Let’s get started!
What are Candy Wrappers?
Candy wrappers are usually made of plastic-coated paper combined with mylar or foil. The wrapper works to keep the candy clean and fresh longer. Wrappers may also include images and text printed with ink. Many types of candies can be wrapped in candy wrappers, from all kinds of chocolate candy to hard candies and more.
The wrappers are considered safe when used as directed, but what happens if a cat eats a candy wrapper?
Candy Wrappers & Cats
Candy wrappers pose some major issues for cats. For one thing, a candy wrapper could become a choking hazard for your fur baby. But it depends on the size of the wrapper.
In some cases, it’s possible for a cat to eat the candy wrapper, and the wrapper goes through the cat’s digestive system without any problem. Within a few days, the wrapper may come out in your cat’s poop! If your feline companion isn’t showing any symptoms, she’s eating and acting normally, monitor her for a few days. If she develops new symptoms or the candy wrapper doesn’t come out, it’s best to call the vet.
Another problem is that the wrapper could become lodged somewhere in the digestive tract and cause an obstruction. This is a serious condition that can cause death if left untreated.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Intestinal Obstruction in Cats
You may notice these symptoms if your cat has eaten a candy wrapper:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Lack of appetite
- Weakness
- Lethargy
- Abdominal pain & swelling
- Cold body temperature
- Crying
- Hiding
If you notice any of these symptoms in your cat, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency.
Treatment of Candy Wrapper Ingestion in Cats
Treatment depends on the vet’s diagnosis. If the candy wrapper is choking your cat, the vet may try to remove the wrapper with an endoscopic procedure. They may also use this method to remove a candy wrapper in your cat’s stomach.
However, if the wrapper has become lodged further along your fur baby’s digestive tract, the vet may need to perform surgery. The surgery is done to remove the candy wrapper and repair any damage it may have caused.
The prognosis is best for cats that receive prompt medical attention after eating a candy wrapper. So, be sure to keep all candy wrappers out of your cat’s reach. You’ll both be happier for it!
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Tom
Tom has always loved to write since he was little - he wanted to be either a writer or a veterinary doctor, but he ended up being a professional writer while most of his works are based on animals. He was born in San Francisco but later moved to Texas to continue his job as a writer. He graduated from the University of San Francisco where he studied biotechnology. He is happily married and a soon to be father!
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