The Spider Web Decoration Caught Something Much Bigger Than a Fly
How did this happen? A black cat lies on the doormat, draped in wispy white spider web from ears to tail, with yellow-green eyes wide and steady. Strands cling to the whiskers, loop across the paws, and stretch out across the rug like a net. Behind her, a hallway holds a basket, a row of shoes, a coat on a hook, and a little cluster of pumpkins and gourds on a bench. She looks less like a spooky creature and more like a cat who has simply decided to wait it out.
Stretchy fake cobwebs are a favorite Halloween decoration, but they are one of the riskiest ones for pets. The thin fibers can wrap around legs, necks, or paws, and if a cat chews and swallows them, they can cause a serious intestinal blockage that needs a vet right away. If you decorate with webbing, keep it high, out of paw's reach, and skip it entirely in rooms where pets roam unsupervised. If your cat does get tangled, stay calm, gently remove the strands, and never pull on anything that seems stuck in the mouth. Call your vet if you notice vomiting or loss of appetite.
This cat could be named Shadow, and she remains remarkably patient through the whole affair. Luckily, the webbing is hanging loose and everything looks gentle here. It is a good reminder that a calm cat and a careful decorator make the best Halloween team.
