What symptoms should I watch for and how soon will they appear if my cat ate a piece of hot dog?

Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive thirst, which can appear within a few hours due to the high salt and nitrate content. The choking risk is immediate, so also monitor for coughing, gagging, or trouble breathing if a piece was too large. These signs usually show up quickly if they're going to occur. Keep an eye on your cat for the next 12-24 hours, as digestive upset can sometimes be delayed. If you see any of these symptoms, contact your vet for advice.