A 2-year-old neutered male mixed-breed cat began sneezing constantly in late April, with large amounts of pus flowing from his nostrils. Pus-like discharge also appeared in both ears, and he experienced poor appetite, relying on syringe feeding for nutrition. The owner took him to Maya Animal Hospital for examination and nasal endoscopy surgery.

The examination revealed that the cat's nasal cavity was filled not only with pus but also tangled cotton fibers. It was later discovered that the cat had a habit of biting stuffed toys, which led to the cotton accidentally entering his nasal cavity and causing an obstruction. This not only resulted in pus discharge but also ruptured both eardrums.

Dr. Chen Guanyu of Maya Animal Hospital explained that the cat had shown symptoms such as thick nasal discharge and congestion since April. Although the owner had taken him to other clinics for treatment and medication, which slightly reduced the discharge, the nasal congestion remained unresolved.

Due to poor appetite, the cat relied entirely on syringe feeding for nutrition. Based on recommendations from another hospital, the owner decided to transfer him to Maya Animal Hospital for endoscopic examination and surgery.Pay attention to the safety of your pet&rsquos toys at home. (Photo / Provided by Heho Pets)

On the day of the operation, pus continued to flow from both nostrils. The veterinarian first flushed out most of the pus and sent the nasal discharge for lab testing. During the procedure, large amounts of pus and tangled artificial fibers were found, some even embedded in the nasal turbinate gaps.

The prolonged irritation caused fibrosis, thickening, and inflammation of the nasal mucosa. Using an endoscope and forceps, the veterinarian carefully removed the cotton and pus bit by bit until the nasal structure was visible. Both nasal passages and the nasopharynx were thoroughly checked to ensure no foreign bodies remained.

In addition, due to pus in both ears, an otoscope was used to inspect the ear canals and eardrums. It was found that both eardrums were ruptured. The owner later confirmed the cat had a habit of chewing on stuffed toys, likely swallowing cotton that then entered the nasal cavity.

After returning home that day, the owner immediately removed all stuffed toys and decided not to give the cat similar toys again.

Respiratory symptoms often include sneezing, runny nose, nasal discharge, thick pus, nasal congestion, poor appetite, and breathing difficulties. Dr. Chen explained that if a foreign object enters the nasal cavity, it irritates the mucous membranes and causes symptoms such as discharge. In severe cases, infection and pus formation can occur, and if pus accumulates, it may spread to the ear canal, causing middle ear pus buildup and eardrum rupture.Pica is clinically common in young animals. (Photo / Provided by Heho Pets)

Fortunately, the surgery was successful. The cat was prescribed antibiotics and anti-inflammatory pain relief. One week later, the owner reported that the cat regained its appetite immediately after returning home and was active again, sniffing around. Dr. Chen emphasized that this case serves as an important reminder for pet owners to ensure toy safety to prevent health hazards caused by accidentally swallowing foreign objects.