Choking in Pets: Recognise It, Act Fast

Signs of choking

• Pawing at mouth
• Distressed gagging without sound
• Blue/grey gums
• Inability to bark/meow
• Collapse

What to do - DOG

1. Open mouth - look for visible object. Use index finger sweep ONLY if you can see it; do not blind sweep.
2. If still choking, modified Heimlich: Stand behind dog, fist below ribcage, sharp upward thrusts - 5 quick.
3. For small dogs: hold inverted, sharp downward shake.
4. Re-check mouth after each cycle.

What to do - CAT

1. Hold cat firmly, head down
2. Sharp pat between shoulder blades
3. Modified Heimlich on small chest if needed
4. Beware: stressed cats bite. Use towel for safety.

After dislodging

ALL choking pets should be examined - soft tissue trauma, aspiration risk.

Prevention

• Appropriately-sized chew toys
• No cooked bones, no small toys
• Slow-feeder bowls for fast eaters

Emergency line: +91 98711 55162.