Recognizing Foreign Body Ingestion in Pets

Our furry friends can sometimes have a habit of getting into things they’re not supposed to, and in the worst-case scenarios, the ingestion of foreign bodies can cause serious problems for our pets. Both dogs and cats are notorious for swallowing objects they shouldn’t. Dogs, in particular, may swallow small objects such as toys, rubber balls, or household items (coins, buttons, or jewelry), as well as bones, clothing, or fabric. Cats, meanwhile, are often attracted to string-like objects such as dental floss, thread, or yarn, as well as some household plants, which can be toxic.

No matter what the object, it’s important to know the common symptoms associated with foreign body ingestion, as a foreign body in a pet's digestive tract can cause vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite. Other symptoms may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, or changes in behavior such as pacing, restlessness, or biting or growling when picked up.

If you notice any of these symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, or if you witness your pet swallowing a foreign object or discover evidence of ingestion, you should seek veterinary care immediately. Time is critical, as an intestinal or stomach obstruction can cut off blood supply to foreign tissues, and exploratory surgery may be needed or recommended.

Though foreign body ingestion is a common issue, with careful observation and quick action, risks can be minimized. Contact the Emergency Veterinary Clinic of Tualatin, your local, privately owned and operated 24-hour emergency clinic. We are open 365 days a year, including all major holidays, nights, and weekends. Find us online at www.evcot.com or call at 503-691-7922.