At Warren House Veterinary Centre, we’ve seen an increase in foreign body cases this month, highlighting the importance of pet owners being aware of the risks. Pets, especially dogs and curious cats, can ingest objects that pose serious health risks. Here’s what you need to know about foreign bodies and how to keep your furry friends safe.
What is a Foreign Body?
A foreign body is any object that is swallowed or lodged in a pet’s body that shouldn’t be there. Common culprits include:
Toys and Small Balls
Pets, particularly dogs, often chew on toys or small balls, which can easily become lodged in their throat or intestines, leading to dangerous blockages.
Socks, Underwear and Fabric
Many dogs, especially young ones, are known for chewing and swallowing clothing items. These can cause obstructions in the digestive tract, sometimes requiring surgery to remove.
Bones and Rawhide Chews
While chewing is natural for dogs, bones and rawhide can break into sharp fragments, causing internal injuries or leading to blockages if swallowed whole.
String, Tinsel and Thread
Cats are particularly drawn to string-like objects, which can cause severe internal damage if swallowed, often requiring emergency intervention.
Stones, Corn Cobs and Sticks
Some dogs have a habit of chewing or eating objects found outdoors. Corn cobs and stones are common culprits for causing intestinal blockages, while sticks can splinter and cause puncture wounds.
Signs Your Pet May Have Ingested a Foreign Object
Foreign bodies can cause severe illness and even become life-threatening if not treated promptly. Watch out for these signs:
- Vomiting or retching – Frequent vomiting can indicate that something obstructs the digestive tract, preventing normal digestion.
- Loss of appetite – If your pet suddenly refuses food, it could be a sign of discomfort or an internal blockage that makes eating painful.
- Abdominal pain or bloating – A swollen or tense abdomen may suggest an obstruction or irritation in the intestines, which can quickly become an emergency.
- Lethargy—If your pet is unusually tired or less active than usual, it may be due to discomfort, dehydration, or the body’s struggle to process an ingested object.
- Straining to defecate or changes in stool – Difficulty passing stool, blood in the stool, or complete lack of bowel movements can signal a blockage in the intestines.
- Excessive drooling – Increased drooling can be a sign of nausea, pain, or an attempt to lubricate the throat if an object is stuck.
What Should You Do if You Suspect a Foreign Body?
If you think your pet has swallowed something they shouldn’t have, contact us immediately. Avoid waiting to see if the object will pass on its own—some items can cause blockages, perforate the intestines, or lead to infections.
How Are Foreign Bodies Diagnosed and Treated?
At Warren House Veterinary Centre, we use advanced diagnostics to locate and assess foreign bodies. Our approach may include:
- X-rays or ultrasound to determine the location of the object
- Endoscopy for non-invasive removal in some cases
- Surgery to retrieve objects that are stuck or causing a blockage
With prompt intervention, most pets make a full recovery. However, prevention is always best!
How to Prevent Foreign Body Ingestion
- Keep small objects, toys, and socks out of reach
- Supervise pets with chew toys and rawhide
- Avoid giving bones that can splinter
- Keep bins secured and food waste out of reach
- Be mindful of strings and decorations, especially with cats
Contact Us Today
If you suspect your pet has swallowed something they shouldn’t have, or if you need guidance on preventing foreign body ingestion, give us a call or visit our clinic. Our team at Warren House Veterinary Centre is always here to help keep your pets happy and healthy!
Thanks for reading—until next time!