Press Office
Tummy troubles - gastro issues account for 3 in 10 vet consults
It’s a dog-eat-sock world: new research exposes surprising and dangerous items pets are consuming, including HUMAN meds and supplements
- Pet owners are being warned to keep a close eye on what their pets are eating - as new research suggests dogs and cats experience gastro issues FOUR times a year on average
- A quarter of pet owners admit to even giving animals human meds such as paracetamol, with a third (32%) of these doing so following AI advice
- Veterinary data reveals dogs and cats are putting their noses where they don’t belong: snacking on socks, squeakers, and sanitary pads
- High stakes: What starts as a minor stomach upset can escalate quickly, with some cases costing up to £12,000 to treat
Pet owners are being warned about putting their furry friends at risk of serious stomach problems, as new research of dog and cat owners reveals their pets experience gastrointestinal issues including vomiting and diarrhea four times a year on average. The research from Admiral Pet Insurance has revealed some surprising and potentially dangerous items pets have consumed - with one in five (20%) owners admitting to giving their cat or dog human supplements, and many not realising the potentially devastating consequences.
Gastrointestinal issues remain one of the most common reasons pets become unwell. Data from Admiral’s online veterinary partner, PawSquad, found that gastrointestinal-related issues were the cause of three in ten (28%) calls in 2025.
Last year, PawSquad dealt with a number of surprising items swallowed by cats and dogs - with socks a common snack for dogs, and other cases including toy squeakers, hand cream, sanitary pads, and for one seaside-loving pet, a starfish. Research of pet owners by Admiral echoed these, with a sixth (16%) of dog owners admitting their pet has ingested fabric items such as bedding and clothing. Other common substances that dogs have consumed are, organic materials like sticks and soil, animal poo or toxic plants.
The ingestion risk for pets goes beyond unexpected objects however. Alarmingly, a quarter (25%) of pet owners say they’ve given their dog or cat human medication like paracetamol. In some cases, this was because a vet had recommended it, however others turned to Google or AI for advice. Admiral warns that drugs like paracetamol and ibuprofen can be extremely toxic to pets, and should only be used following clear instructions from your vet. Human supplements are also popular with some pet owners - and 21% of dog owners and 20% of cat owners have purposely given one to their pet. This includes items containing xylitol, a highly toxic sweetener commonly found in popular ‘gummy’ products - with 11% of dog owners and 12% of cat owners saying they’ve done this.
While often well-intentioned, Admiral’s research highlights how easy it is for owners to not realise what is dangerous for pets, particularly as more households keep a growing range of human wellness products at home - Google alone shows searches for ‘gummies’, which often include harmful xylitol, have increased by 36% in the last year.
The risk is heightened by where some owners are turning for information, with a third (32%) saying they’ve given human medication to their pets following advice from AI search engines. For 1 in 10 people, AI is their first port of call when their pet shows signs of a gastrointestinal illness.
Tummy troubles carry a huge risk for dogs and cats, and what might start as mild gastrointestinal symptoms can quickly escalate, with the highest value single claims Admiral has received for swallowed objects ranging between £7,000-£12,000.
Dan Shrimpton, Head of Telehealth, PawSquad, says: “Gastrointestinal issues are among the most common reasons pet owners seek veterinary advice through PawSquad. These problems can range from mild digestive upset to serious, potentially life‑threatening illness. Pet owners can help reduce the risk by ensuring their pets receive a balanced, high‑quality diet, and by keeping non‑pet‑safe foods and chewable objects out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion.”
Knowing the difference between a minor stomach upset and a veterinary emergency can make a huge difference, and early treatment can prevent serious complications and help avoid more invasive procedures.
While it may be possible to manage mild symptoms at home, Nicole Fox RVN CertVNECC, Veterinary Specialist, Admiral, says: “The weird and wonderful things our pets eat mean gastrointestinal problems continue to be a leading reason for vet visits and insurance claims. If you’re not sure, it’s always best to consult a vet before taking action at home - it could save a lot of trouble down the line. For Admiral Pet policy holders, online service PawSquad can advise when a pet may need to visit a physical vet.
“Many human medicines and supplements contain ingredients that pets cannot safely process, meaning even well‑intended treatment can cause significant harm. Always seek veterinary advice before giving any medication or supplement to a pet.”
Pritpal Powar, Pet Director at Admiral, concludes: “When dogs and cats face stomach issues or swallow something they shouldn’t, it can be frightening for owners. Whether it’s a sudden stomach upset or a swallowed object, gastrointestinal claims remind us that pets tend to explore the world mouth‑first. Try to remove any hazards from easy to reach places, consult a vet before providing treatment at home, and ensure you’re fully covered so that you can access support should you need it.”
Dan Shrimpton has also shared advice on what to do if you suspect your pet may be experiencing some tummy trouble: “It’s common for pets to experience the occasional tummy upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. In many cases this is mild and settles on its own. That said, knowing when to contact your vet will help you to best look after your pet.”
“Contact your vet urgently if your pet:
- Has abdominal pain (restlessness/inability to settle, “tucked up” body posture or adopting a “praying” front end down posture), a swollen abdomen, or is retching without bringing anything up
- Is very lethargic, weak, or collapsed
- Is a puppy or kitten, elderly, or has other significant medical conditions
- Is vomiting frequently – multiple separate episodes in an hour, or has blood in their vomit or diarrhoea
- May have eaten something poisonous or a non‑digestible object
- Has symptoms that have persisted longer than 24 hours
If any of these apply, or if you’re simply worried, it is never wrong to contact your vet for advice, reassurance, and guidance.”
For more advice on general pet health, visit Admiral’s guide online.