At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we recently treated a young Cane Corso named Odin. His case highlighted just how serious the dangers of pets ingesting foreign objects can be.
In this blog post, we’ll share Odin’s journey and explain the risks of foreign body ingestion in cats and dogs. We’ll also highlight why prompt veterinary care can make all the difference.
Odin’s Story: A Lesson in Vigilance
Odin, a two-year-old Cane Corso, came to i-Care after experiencing significant weight loss and lethargy. His owners were concerned because he wasn’t eating well and had become very thin.
Before visiting us, Odin had an endoscopic procedure at another clinic. They removed pieces of a Kong toy from his stomach and upper intestine, but his symptoms persisted.
Dr. Alastair Westcott performed an ultrasound and noticed some abnormalities. Based on the findings, he recommended exploratory surgery to identify the root cause.
The procedure Dr. Westcott performed to remove the ball from Odin’s intestines is called an exploratory laparotomy. This surgical procedure involves making an incision into the abdomen to directly visualize and access the abdominal organs. It allows the veterinarian to locate the obstruction—in this case, the ball—and surgically remove it from the intestines.
Exploratory laparotomy is often used when imaging tests like ultrasounds or X-rays indicate abnormalities, but further exploration is needed to diagnose and treat the problem effectively.
During the surgery on September 23, 2024, Dr. Westcott discovered a mostly intact ball lodged in Odin’s digestive tract. Once he removed the ball, Odin began to improve almost immediately.
Here’s a video of the procedure:
Since his surgery, Odin has regained 10 kg and returned to his cheerful, energetic self. His remarkable recovery has brought immense relief to his family.
The Risks of Foreign Body Ingestion
Unfortunately, Odin’s experience is not unique. Foreign body ingestion occurs frequently, especially among young or curious pets.
A wide range of objects can cause trouble, including:
- Toys: Chew toys, like balls or Kong pieces, can break into smaller parts that become lodged in the digestive system.
- Household Items: Everyday items such as socks, hair ties, and rubber bands may seem harmless, yet they often cause blockages.
- Bones: Cooked bones tend to splinter and can seriously damage the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
- Food Packaging: Plastic wrappers or aluminum foil can pose serious risks if ingested.
When a pet swallows an object that cannot pass through, several complications may arise. These include GI obstruction, perforation, or even toxicity from harmful substances.
Symptoms to Watch For
When a pet ingests a foreign object, symptoms may appear suddenly or develop gradually. Therefore, knowing the warning signs is crucial.
Common indicators include:
- Vomiting: Persistent or frequent vomiting, which may contain blood if there’s internal damage.
- Loss of Appetite: Reduced interest in food, even favorite treats.
- Lethargy: Noticeable decrease in activity levels and enthusiasm.
- Abdominal Pain: Sensitivity to touch, restlessness, or a hunched posture.
- Changes in Bowel Movements: Diarrhea, constipation, or a complete lack of bowel movements.
In Odin’s case, his symptoms included weight loss, lethargy, and a lack of appetite. Although he initially showed some improvement, his condition didn’t fully resolve until surgery.
Why Prompt Veterinary Care Is Essential
If you suspect that your pet has swallowed something, don’t delay seeking veterinary care. Acting quickly can make a major difference.
The sooner a problem is identified, the more treatment options remain available. Delays can lead to complications like dehydration or infection.
To diagnose the issue, veterinarians typically start with a physical exam. Imaging techniques such as X-rays or ultrasound help to confirm the presence of a foreign body.
In some cases, endoscopy is used to visualize and potentially remove the object. When that’s not possible, surgery becomes necessary to resolve the issue.
Dr. Westcott’s decision to perform surgery saved Odin’s life. Once the ball was removed, he quickly regained his strength and put the weight back on.
Preventing Foreign Body Ingestion
While prevention can be challenging, there are steps you can take to reduce risks:
- Choose Safe Toys: Opt for toys that suit your pet’s size and chewing habits. Make sure the toys are durable and free of small parts that could break off and be swallowed.
- Supervise Playtime: Keep a close eye on your pet during play, especially if they tend to chew aggressively or try to swallow things.
- Pet-Proof Your Home: Store potential hazards like hair ties, coins, rubber bands, and medications in places your pet cannot access.
- Dispose of Bones Carefully: If you give bones to your pet, ensure they are raw, appropriately sized, and safe for chewing. Avoid cooked bones, which are more likely to splinter.
- Use Feeding Toys: If your pet eats too quickly, using feeding toys can help slow them down and make mealtime safer.
When to Visit the Vet
If your pet shows signs of ingesting a foreign object, don’t wait to see if symptoms resolve. Early veterinary intervention improves the chances of a successful outcome.
Symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or changes in bowel movements should not be ignored. Acting promptly can save your pet’s life.
Odin’s Happy Ending
Today, Odin is thriving again. He’s back to playing with his family and enjoying life as a happy, healthy dog.
His story serves as a reminder to pet owners: keep an eye on what your furry friend might be chewing or swallowing. Never hesitate to seek help if something seems wrong.
Conclusion
Foreign body ingestion poses a serious risk for cats and dogs. Fortunately, taking simple precautions can help prevent incidents.
Odin’s journey with i-Care Veterinary Hospital highlights the importance of recognizing symptoms early. If you think your pet may have swallowed something dangerous, reach out to a veterinarian right away.
For more information or to book an appointment, visit i-Care Veterinary Hospital. Our team is dedicated to keeping your pets safe, happy, and healthy.