Foreign Body Ingestion / Gastrointestinal Obstruction
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About this condition
A condition in which accidental swallowing of foreign objects such as toys, fabric, or bone fragments, or ingestion of toxic foods, plants, or medications causes gastrointestinal injury. The urgency varies greatly depending on the type and size of the foreign body.
Common symptoms
- Repeated vomiting
- Loss of appetite or refusal to eat
- Abdominal pain or sensitivity when the abdomen is touched
- Lethargy or hunching over
- Constipation or difficulty defecating
Common causes
- Accidental swallowing of solid objects such as toys, socks, or stones
- Ingestion of indigestible material such as bone fragments
- Accidental ingestion of toxic foods, plants, or medications (e.g., chocolate, grapes, certain houseplants)
- Tendency in puppies to mouth and swallow non-food items
Prevention (husbandry & daily care)
Store small objects, toys, and fabric items out of the dog's reach. Keep toxic foods (chocolate, grapes, onions, etc.), medications, and houseplants in inaccessible locations. Puppies in particular are highly exploratory, so regularly checking the home environment for hazards (puppy-proofing) is important.
Related species guide
→ Browse the species guide for this animalWhen to see a vet
Consider a vet within a few daysWhat treatment does a vet provide?
A veterinarian will identify the location, size, and type of the foreign body through X-ray and ultrasound examination. If only a short time has passed since ingestion, inducing vomiting may be considered. If passage is obstructed or the foreign body is toxic, endoscopic retrieval or surgery may be performed. Systemic management and appropriate treatment are selected based on the type of foreign body involved.
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