Is it okay to induce vomiting at home?

You shouldn't try to induce vomiting without a vet's instruction. If your pet swallowed something sharp or corrosive, vomiting can actually injure the esophagus or mouth. Call your vet first, describe the situation, and follow their guidance.

Is it fine if my pet swallowed something small, like a piece of string?

Even small items like string or thread can cause a blockage or get tangled in your pet's intestines, so it's not something to take lightly. If you're sure your pet swallowed it, call your vet regardless of the object's size. They can help you decide whether to just watch for symptoms or bring your pet in.

Do I still need to see a vet if my pet isn't showing any symptoms?

If you're sure your pet swallowed something it shouldn't have, it's a good idea to call your vet even without symptoms. Symptoms can take hours to appear, and depending on what was swallowed, they may not be obvious at first. A phone consultation can help you determine whether to keep watching or bring your pet in.

What to Do If Your Pet Swallows Something It Shouldn't

Last reviewed 2026-07-07

If your pet may have swallowed something it shouldn't have, don't try to induce vomiting on your own. Note what, when, and how much they swallowed, then call your vet right away for guidance.

What should you do if your pet swallows something strange?

If you think your pet has swallowed something it shouldn't have eaten, don't try to induce vomiting or attempt any treatment at home — call your vet first. Knowing what, when, and roughly how much your pet swallowed will help the vet assess the situation. A phone consultation is the safest way to find out whether a visit is needed.

Things to avoid

Trying to induce vomiting yourself without a vet's guidance (this can be especially risky if the object is sharp or the substance is corrosive)
Using home remedies or human medication you found online without consulting a vet
Delaying a call just because your pet isn't showing symptoms yet
Trying to pull out the swallowed object by hand or with tools

Information that helps when you call the vet

What was swallowed (type, size, material, whether it may be toxic)
When it happened and roughly how much was swallowed
Symptoms you're seeing now (vomiting, lethargy, drooling, a bloated belly, etc.)
Your pet's age, weight, and general health

When it's best to call right away

Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onions and garlic, foods containing xylitol, human medication, and household chemicals are commonly known to be harmful to pets, so call promptly if your pet has swallowed any of these. If you notice repeated vomiting, severe lethargy, seizures, or your pet hunching over in apparent pain, contact an emergency animal hospital even outside regular clinic hours. Even without clear symptoms, it's safer to call for advice if you're sure your pet swallowed something it shouldn't have.

Find a clinic in your area quickly

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This is general information. Please confirm the exact diagnosis, costs, and schedule directly with an animal hospital or veterinarian.

Frequently asked questions

Is it okay to induce vomiting at home?: You shouldn't try to induce vomiting without a vet's instruction. If your pet swallowed something sharp or corrosive, vomiting can actually injure the esophagus or mouth. Call your vet first, describe the situation, and follow their guidance.
Is it fine if my pet swallowed something small, like a piece of string?: Even small items like string or thread can cause a blockage or get tangled in your pet's intestines, so it's not something to take lightly. If you're sure your pet swallowed it, call your vet regardless of the object's size. They can help you decide whether to just watch for symptoms or bring your pet in.
Do I still need to see a vet if my pet isn't showing any symptoms?: If you're sure your pet swallowed something it shouldn't have, it's a good idea to call your vet even without symptoms. Symptoms can take hours to appear, and depending on what was swallowed, they may not be obvious at first. A phone consultation can help you determine whether to keep watching or bring your pet in.