What to Do If Your Pet Swallows a Foreign Object: Step-by-Step Guidance

By: Christine May 21, 2025

Pets are curious creatures. They sniff, chew, and sometimes swallow things they probably shouldn’t. As adorable as it can be to watch your dog proudly carry around a sock or your cat batting a small toy across the floor, swallowing foreign objects can quickly turn into a scary emergency. If your furry friend ever swallows something they’re not supposed to, it’s important to know exactly what to do — fast.

Here’s a straightforward, step-by-step guide on what to do if your pet swallows a foreign object, so you can stay calm, act wisely, and keep your pet safe.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first (and sometimes hardest) thing to do is keep calm. Panicking won’t help, and your pet can pick up on your anxiety, which might make the situation more stressful for both of you.

Try to figure out what your pet swallowed. Was it a small toy? A piece of string? A coin? The size, shape, and material of the object matter a lot when it comes to the risk level. For example, sharp objects, batteries, or anything toxic need immediate veterinary attention.

Also, watch your pet closely for any obvious signs of distress like choking, gagging, vomiting, drooling excessively, or pawing at their mouth.

Step 2: Check Your Pet’s Mouth and Throat Carefully

If your pet isn’t showing signs of choking, and you feel comfortable doing so, try to check their mouth to see if you can spot the object. Be very gentle and cautious here — your pet might panic or bite if they’re scared or in pain.

If you see the object and can safely remove it with your fingers, go ahead. But do not try to force anything down their throat or poke around if the object is out of reach or stuck, as you could accidentally push it further or cause injury.

Step 3: Avoid Inducing Vomiting Without Professional Advice

You might have heard that making your pet vomit can help get rid of swallowed objects. However, inducing vomiting isn’t always the right answer — especially if the object is sharp, toxic, or could get stuck on the way back up.

Never try to make your pet vomit without consulting a veterinarian first. Some substances or objects can cause more harm coming back up, and your vet can advise you on the safest course of action.

Step 4: Watch for Warning Signs and Symptoms

Even if your pet seems fine immediately after swallowing something, it doesn’t mean they’re out of the woods. Objects can get stuck in the throat, stomach, or intestines and cause serious problems.

Here are some warning signs to watch for:

  • Vomiting or retching

  • Loss of appetite

  • Lethargy or weakness

  • Abdominal pain or bloating

  • Diarrhea or constipation

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Excessive drooling

  • Pawing at the mouth or face

If you notice any of these signs, your pet needs to be seen by a veterinarian immediately.

Step 5: Contact Your Veterinarian or Emergency Vet Clinic Right Away

If you know or suspect your pet swallowed a foreign object, especially if it’s sharp, toxic, or causing distress, don’t wait to see if they “get better.”

Call your regular vet or, if it’s after hours, reach out to an emergency veterinary clinic. The sooner your pet is evaluated, the better their chances of avoiding serious complications.

At CASE Hospital in Anaheim, CA, they understand how frightening these situations can be. Their emergency vet team is ready 24/7 to help pets in urgent need. Whether it’s swallowed objects, choking, or any other emergency, CASE Hospital is a trusted place to bring your furry family member for immediate, expert care.

Step 6: What to Expect at the Vet

When you bring your pet in, the vet will likely perform a physical exam and may take X-rays or other imaging tests to locate the object. Depending on where the object is and what it is, treatment might include:

  • Monitoring and supportive care if the object is small and likely to pass naturally

  • Endoscopy, where the vet uses a small camera and tools to remove the object without surgery

  • Surgery, if the object is large, sharp, or causing blockage or damage

Your vet will explain the best option for your pet’s health and safety.

Step 7: Preventing Future Swallowed Objects

After the crisis is handled, it’s a good time to think about how to prevent it from happening again. Here are a few tips:

  • Keep small objects, toys, and hazardous items out of reach

  • Provide safe chew toys that are appropriate for your pet’s size and chewing habits

  • Supervise your pet closely, especially during playtime or around areas where small items might be dropped

  • Train your pet to “leave it” or “drop it” on command, which can help you intervene before they swallow something dangerous

When in Doubt, Don’t Hesitate — Contact CASE Hospital in Anaheim, CA

Foreign object ingestion is a common but serious issue that requires prompt attention. If your pet ever swallows something they shouldn’t, follow these steps, but don’t wait if you see warning signs or feel uncertain.

The emergency veterinary team at CASE Hospital in Anaheim, CA is here 24/7 to provide compassionate, expert care when your pet needs it most. Whether it’s the middle of the night or a busy holiday weekend, they are ready to help your furry friend with emergency treatment tailored to their unique needs.

Remember, when your pet swallows a foreign object, every minute counts. Don’t hesitate — reach out to CASE Hospital for trusted pet emergency care that can make all the difference.