Foreign objects

Common diseases - Foreign objects

Some pets have the bad habit of swallowing everything they come across! Dogs seem to be more affected because of their eating habits which are less discriminatory. However, cats too can be attracted by certain threads or objects. Beware of puppies that nibble and may swallow almost anything!

Foreign objects can remain in the stomach or lodge in any portion of the intestine. MOST OFTEN, THIS CONDITION REQUIRES SURGERY AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE. In some cases, if the foreign object is found in the stomach, a gastroscopy (stomach exam with an optical instrument) can allow for the withdrawal of the foreign object without having to do surgery.

HOWEVER, IN ALL CASES, IT IS OF UTMOST IMPORTANCE THAT YOU SEE YOUR VETERINARIAN. A physical exam is necessary and X-rays of the abdomen may be suggested.

If your pet ingests a foreign object, it may present different clinical signs (symptoms). Among the most frequent are:

Vomiting, a result of obstruction with the passing of water and/or food

Stomach distension, abdominal discomfort

Diarrhea

Anorexia

Loss of liveliness

Dehydration

Some foreign objects can cause severe damage to the intestinal mucosa and sometimes even perforations with peritonitis. In some cases, one will not only need surgery to take out the foreign object (gastrotomy or enterotomy), but it can also be necessary to remove a portion of the damaged intestine (enterectomy) for example.
The patient is hospitalized and followed closely during the post-operative period. Hydration can be maintained with intravenous solutions. Different drugs can be administered if necessary, like antibiotics, analgesics, antacids and mucosa protectants. Afterwards, an easy to digest diet is offered; then a gradual return to the normal diet is finally considered.

If you have seen your pet swallow or nibble on a foreign object or if you have any doubt, consult your veterinarian!