A 6-year-old cat in Sebastian, Florida, narrowly escaped euthanasia last week after swallowing 26 hair ties that created a life-threatening intestinal blockage — a case that veterinarians and animal welfare workers are using to remind pet owners how dangerous everyday household items can be.
The cat, a black female named Midnite, had been surrendered to a shelter for euthanasia because of a severe internal obstruction. The HALO No-Kill Rescue Shelter in Sebastian agreed to take her in and rushed her into emergency surgery. Veterinarians described Midnite's condition as dire, saying she was "on death's door" when she arrived.
During the operation, surgeons made a startling discovery: 26 hair ties were blocking Midnite's digestive system. The sheer volume of swallowed objects stunned the veterinary team.
Midnite is now recovering well and, according to HALO staff, is "ravenous" — eagerly eating everything offered to her.
HALO took to social media to share Midnite's story and issue a warning to pet owners across the country.
Veterinarians say hair ties are among the most commonly swallowed foreign objects in cats, partly because their stretchy texture and small size make them irresistible toys. When a hair tie gets lodged in a cat's digestive system, it can cause a physical blockage, trigger vomiting, and — if the elastic snaps — can actually cut through the wall of the intestine. In severe cases, surgical removal is the only option before the damage becomes fatal.
Symptoms of hair tie ingestion in cats include vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and difficulty defecating. Veterinarians urge owners to seek immediate care if a cat shows any of those signs, especially if small objects are known to be within the pet's reach.
HALO's advice to cat owners is straightforward: treat hair ties the way you would any small choking hazard — store them in a drawer, a bag, or anywhere out of paw's reach.
Midnite is expected to make a full recovery and will be available for adoption through HALO once she is cleared by veterinary staff.
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