Many pet owners have an especially curious dog or cat that will try to eat anything that's left out in the open. This can be a scary prospect for pet parents, as this can lead to thousands of dollars in veterinary costs and potential discomfort for your furry friend. According to CatChannel.com, Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. policyholders spent almost $5.2 million at the vet's office from January to November of this year treating their pets after they've ingested everything from cell phone cases to dental floss to a wedding ring!

The insurance company estimates that owners spent on average nearly $1,472 for surgery to remove these items from a pet's stomach, and even more if it made its way to the intestine. Luckily, you can prevent your pet from eating some of these household objects with a combination of animal wellness techniques and behavioral training.

First and foremost, eating foreign objects can be traced to sheer boredom as well as a lack of proper nutrition. If you own a pet, be sure to play with him at least a half hour a day to help him break out of the doldrums of being inside all day. Additionally, consider looking into a pet food that offers well-rounded nutrition. If your pet isn't receiving the right amount of nutrients in his diet, he will be more inclined to sample some of the random objects around your home. Look for products that use natural ingredients - they may cost a bit more, but they will ensure that your four-legged friend's needs are met.

Another tip is to invest in a few more pet toys for your companion and make a concerted effort to hide some of the small objects that may be lying around. For instance, give your cat a new scratching post or give your dog a new uncooked bone to munch on. This will help to give them something to do during the day when you're off at work, and they'll be less inclined to eat objects that are lying around.

Finally, it's important to train yourself to keep a close eye on your pet. Be mindful of the signs that your pet is interested in a certain object and make sure to hide it as soon as possible. With a little behavior modification, you and your pet can avoid an embarrassing trip to the vet's office!

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