Intestinal foreign bodies

One very common, and very avoidable, cause for a vet visit is when a pet has eaten an object that’s become lodged in their digestive tract (we call them digestive tract foreign bodies).

The signs of an obstruction can vary depending on where abouts in the tract the object has become stuck, but can include;
-Lethargy and weakness
-Abdominal pain
-Inappetence and nausea
-Vomiting
-Diarrhoea or constipation or blood in the stools.

Our vets will give these animals a thorough work up, often using blood sampling, ultrasound scanning or x-rays.  If an object is located then surgery to remove it is often required.  

Pets most at risk of digestive tract foreign bodies are curious and playful pups and kittens and dogs who like to scavenge.

Here’s a list of troublesome items we commonly remove from our patient’s digestive tracts.
-Corn cobs
-Stones
-Bones 
-Toys (balls, kid’s toys, fishing hooks…)
-Food wrap
-Clothing (especially underwear)
-String, yarn and Christmas decorations (especially cats).

Prevention is best.  Just as we do with young children, it’s important to keep an eye on what your pet puts in their mouth.