Cat has surgery to remove bell from stomach

[Ck]

A cat had to have an operation after mystified vets discovered a small metal bell in his stomach.

Basil, one, had the bell removed in a lengthy procedure after x-rays revealed the cause of his discomfort.

The cat was given the all-clear the following day - to the relief of owner Michelle Crowther of Croydon in south London

Veterinary surgeon Susan Ransom said: "The x-rays showed up something very unusual.

"Attached to the bell was some string and we had to make three incisions to remove all of it."

Ms Crowther added: "When Basil became unwell I was very worried because it was so out of character for him.

"I couldn't believe it when the staff at the vets told me what they had found.

"All I kept thinking was 'where did he get it from?'.

"He is such a mischievous and curious cat, getting hold of things he shouldn't.

"The children and I now make sure we don't leave anything lying around."

Animal charity the PDSA said many pets are treated each year for eating a range of unusual objects.

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[Alpha]

Awww, he was probably curious. Little kittens always are.

[Earl]

You'd have thought he'd just shit it out. I'd have given him a kebab, that would've flushed him out, and he'd enjoy it more than surgery.