What are the symptoms of intestinal obstruction (foreign body)?

Persistent vomiting (sometimes projectile). Refusal to eat. Abdominal pain. No bowel movements or scant diarrhoea. Lethargy. Abdomen painful on palpation

Is Intestinal obstruction (foreign body) contagious?

Intestinal obstruction (foreign body) does not spread directly between animals.

Digestivas

Intestinal obstruction (foreign body)

A blockage of the intestinal transit, almost always caused by swallowing an object (toy, sock, bone, string). It is an emergency: the intestine can become necrotic.

Veterinary emergency🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

This may be a veterinary emergency

URGENT if there is repeated vomiting that does not stop, especially if you suspect something has been swallowed. If you see thread hanging from the mouth or anus, do NOT pull on it — go to the vet.

Symptoms to watch for

• Persistent vomiting (sometimes projectile)
• Refusal to eat
• Abdominal pain
• No bowel movements or scant diarrhoea
• Lethargy
• Abdomen painful on palpation

Causes

Swallowing indigestible objects. Linear foreign bodies (string, thread, wool) are especially dangerous in cats: they cut through the intestine "like a saw".

Diagnosis

X-ray (radiopaque objects are seen directly; others require contrast) and ultrasound. A history of "a toy has gone missing" is a strong clue.

Treatment

SURGERY in most cases to remove the object. Sometimes it can be retrieved by endoscopy if it is still in the stomach. The sooner, the less intestinal damage.

Prevention

Prevent access to small objects, toys that can break apart, string and thread. Keep an eye on puppies and young cats that chew on everything.

When should you see the vet?

URGENT if there is repeated vomiting that does not stop, especially if you suspect something has been swallowed. If you see thread hanging from the mouth or anus, do NOT pull on it — go to the vet.

Consult a vet 24 h emergency vets nearby

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.