The Hidden Danger of Foreign Object Ingestion in Pets

If they swallow something they shouldn’t, it can lead to life-threatening complications, especially when the object is long or string-like, such as ribbons or threads.

A Growing Concern

According to Nationwide Pet Insurance, foreign object ingestion is one of the most common claims they receive. In 2018 alone, pet owners filed claims totaling over $11.5 million for dogs and cats that had swallowed something dangerous.

Get a Pet Insurance Quote

Where Do These Objects Get Stuck?

When a pet swallows an object, it travels through their digestive system, essentially a long tube starting from the mouth, through the stomach and intestines, and ending at the rectum. Normally, food and other ingested material take 10 to 24 hours to pass through. But some objects get stuck along the way, sometimes remaining in the stomach for months.

The most common places for blockages are:

 The stomach exit – Large objects can get stuck before entering the intestines.

• The small intestine – This is where most serious blockages occur. String-like objects can even cause the intestines to bunch up like an accordion.

• The colon – If an object reaches this far, it will likely pass naturally, but sharp items can cause pain or damage. Never try to pull a protruding object from your pet’s rectum—it could cause internal injuries.

Signs Your Pet May Have Swallowed Something Dangerous 

Pets that ingest foreign objects often show clear signs of distress, including:

• Loss of appetite

• Lethargy or depression

• Vomiting (which may be intermittent or persistent)

• Diarrhea (in early stages)

If the object completely blocks the digestive tract, the pet won’t be able to keep down food or water, and their condition will worsen quickly.

How Vets Diagnose Foreign Body Ingestion

If you suspect your pet has swallowed something, a vet will start with a physical exam. Sometimes, they can feel an obstruction in the abdomen. If needed, they may perform:

• X-rays – While soft materials (like cloth or plastic) may not show up clearly, metal, rocks, and bones will be visible. A blockage can sometimes be detected by abnormal gas patterns in the intestines.

• Contrast studies – Your pet may be given a special contrast agent to drink, followed by a series of X-rays to track how the liquid moves through their system.

• Ultrasound – This can help detect blockages that aren’t visible on X-rays.

• Exploratory surgery – In severe cases where imaging is inconclusive but symptoms are strong, a vet may recommend surgery to locate and remove the obstruction.

Why Foreign Body Ingestion is So Dangerous

 If an obstruction is left untreated, it can lead to serious complications:

1. Dehydration and weakness – Repeated vomiting causes fluid and electrolyte loss.

2. Intestinal damage – Blockages cut off blood flow, causing tissue to die. This is extremely painful and can lead to severe infection.

3. Intestinal perforation – If the intestinal wall tears, bacteria, and digestive acids spill into the abdomen, leading to a deadly infection called peritonitis.

At this stage, emergency surgery is critical, but even with treatment, some pets may not survive.

Treatment and Recovery

The first step in treatment is stabilizing the pet with IV fluids, pain management, and possibly antibiotics.

• If the object is still in the stomach, it may pass on its own, or the vet might remove it with an endoscope—a long tube inserted through the mouth.

• If the object is in the intestines, surgery is usually the only option.

After surgery, pets need hospitalization for monitoring and recovery. The more severe the case, the longer the hospital stay.

Preventing Foreign Body Ingestion

Get a Pet Insurance Quote

 Since pets explore the world with their mouths, it’s up to owners to keep them safe. Here’s how:

• Keep small objects, strings, and ribbons out of reach.

• Choose safe, size-appropriate chew toys and inspect them regularly for damage.

• Be especially cautious with puppies and kittens, as they’re more likely to chew and swallow things.

• If you suspect your pet has swallowed something, call your vet immediately. The sooner they receive care, the better their chances of a full recovery.

By staying aware and taking precautions, you can help keep your furry friend safe from this common yet serious danger.