Pets are curious creatures, and sometimes their curiosity leads them to munch on the most unexpected (and bizarre) items. While it’s often amusing to hear about these incidents after the fact, it’s a reminder to keep a close eye on what’s within your furry friend’s reach. Here are 20 of the strangest things pets have been known to eat—some amusing, others downright unbelievable!
1. Socks
A classic for dogs, socks seem to top the list of unintended snacks. Soft, stretchy, and chewable—it’s a canine dream (but a vet’s nightmare).
2. Underwear
Pets don’t discriminate when it comes to laundry, and underwear seems to be a particularly appealing choice for some.
3. Rocks
Some dogs, especially puppies, find rocks fascinating to chew on, despite the dental disaster it could cause.
4. Hair Ties and Scrunchies
Cats, in particular, seem to love batting and swallowing these stretchy loops.
5. Coins
Shiny and small, coins have made their way into many a pet’s stomach—potentially causing serious issues if left untreated.
6. Children’s Toys
From action figures to tiny tea sets, small toys are often irresistible (and dangerous) chewables.
7. Remote Controls
Chewing on the family remote is a favorite pastime for some pets, and batteries or plastic bits can end up swallowed in the process.
8. Phones and Chargers
Modern pets have an eye for expensive tastes—literally gnawing on phones or ingesting bits of chargers.
9. Glue Sticks
Whether it’s the texture or smell, glue sticks seem to pique curiosity, especially in dogs.
10. Jewelry
Shiny rings, earrings, and bracelets have mysteriously gone missing, only to turn up in an X-ray or backyard “return.”
11. Candles
The waxy texture and enticing scents make candles an unfortunate target for some pets.
12. Fishing Hooks
For pets accompanying their owners on fishing trips, hooks can pose a serious risk.
13. Razor Blades
Incredibly dangerous and thankfully rare, some pets have ingested razor blades, mistaking them for chewable items.
14. Christmas Ornaments
Pets often see these sparkling baubles as toys, leading to unfortunate swallowing incidents.
15. Diapers
Used or unused, diapers have a strange allure for dogs, resulting in very messy situations.
16. Cigarettes or Butts
The smell of tobacco can attract pets, though ingesting it is highly toxic.
17. Golf Balls
For larger breeds, a golf ball is a perfect size to fetch—and occasionally swallow.
18. Barbie Dolls
Plastic dolls, especially smaller ones, are often consumed by curious dogs.
19. Light Bulbs
The fragile, shiny surface can tempt pets, but these are dangerous due to the risk of glass shards.
20. Money
Bills and coins alike have been devoured by pets, leaving owners wondering if their pet literally “ate their savings.”
Preventing Unintended Snacks
While the stories might be amusing, the consequences can be serious. To keep your pet safe:
- Pet-proof your home: Keep tempting objects out of reach.
- Provide safe chew toys: Give them an appropriate outlet for their chewing instincts.
- Supervise when necessary: Especially with young pets or in new environments.
Final Thoughts
Pets have a knack for turning the mundane into a potential meal, so it’s always a good idea to stay one step ahead of their curiosity. If your pet does ingest something unusual, don’t hesitate to consult your vet—they’ve seen it all!
What’s the strangest thing your pet has ever eaten? Share your story in the comments below!