Foreign body ingestion
A non-food object is swallowed
Foreign body ingestion occurs when pets swallow objects that are not meant to be eaten. This can be a serious situation that requires immediate attention. Consult with a veterinarian if you see your pet ingest something they should not. Signs may include:
- Persistent vomiting: If your pet is vomiting repeatedly or has difficulty keeping food or water down, it could be a sign of a foreign body blocking the bowel
- Loss of appetite or refusing to eat
- Abdominal pain or discomfort, such as restlessness, pacing, whining, hunched posture, or sensitivity when the abdomen is touched
- Lethargy or decreased activity level
- Changes in bowel movements, including loose stools or diarrhea, constipation, or straining to defecate
- Pawing at the mouth or throat, indicating discomfort or an attempt to dislodge the foreign object
- Persistent coughing, gagging, or retching can suggest the presence of a foreign body in the airway
Foreign body ingestion can lead to related health conditions such as intestinal blockage, damage to the gastrointestinal tract, or abdominal cavity infection.
If you suspect your pet has ingested a foreign object or you notice any of these signs, it's crucial to seek veterinary care. Early detection and intervention can improve the chances of successful management, make your pet feel better, and prevent complications.
When you visit your veterinarian for concerns related to foreign body ingestion, the following may occur:
- Medical history: They will take a detailed medical history, including any witnessed foreign body ingestion, observed signs (e.g., vomiting, diarrhea) and their duration.
- Physical examination: The veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination of your pet, checking for any abnormalities and signs of discomfort.
- Diagnostic testing: Diagnostic testing such as X-rays, blood work, or ultrasound may be recommended to evaluate the presence and location of the foreign object.
- Treatment options: Treatment for foreign body ingestion typically involves removing the object from the gastrointestinal tract. Depending on the size, location, type of foreign body, or the severity of involvement, your veterinarian may recommend either supportive care to help your pet pass the object, or retrieval under anesthesia either with endoscopy or surgery. In some cases, supportive care such as intravenous fluids and medication to manage pain or prevent infection may also be necessary.
- Follow-up care: After the foreign body is removed, your pet may need a period of recovery and monitoring. Your veterinarian will discuss a follow-up plan, which may involve monitoring your pet's progress, additional tests, or adjustments to the treatment regimen.
Your veterinary healthcare team will partner with you to decide which treatment option is best for your pet's and your family’s specific condition and situation.
Here are some things you can do at home to help prevent foreign body ingestion in your pet:
- Supervise your pet: Keep a close eye on your pet, especially when they are playing with toys or chewing on objects.
- Select proper toys: Choose toys that are specifically designed for pets and are made of durable materials. Avoid toys with small parts, strings, or stuffing that can be easily torn apart and ingested.
- Secure garbage and household items: Ensure that garbage bins are securely closed and not easily accessible to your pet. Keep household items, such as rubber bands, hair ties, and small objects, out of reach.
- Be cautious with food and treats: Carefully prevent access to corn cobs, which are often ingested and typically require surgery to remove. Be cautious with food wrappers, plastic bags, and other packaging materials that may be attractive to pets but pose a risk if swallowed.
- Training and behavior management: Train your pet to obey basic commands, such as "leave it" or "drop it," to prevent them from ingesting inappropriate objects.
Please note that the information provided here is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you suspect your pet has ingested a foreign object, contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance and follow their recommendations for appropriate care.