Linear Foreign Body

A foreign body is a non-edible object ingested by a pet. Some foreign bodies can pass through the digestive tract normally, while others can get stuck and create an obstruction. Did you know that even a tiny string can create an intestinal obstruction? In this blog, we will discuss the dangers of a linear foreign body, symptoms to watch for, and how to avoid this emergency.

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What is a linear foreign body?

A linear foreign body refers to long, thin (non-food) object that may be ingested by your pet. Some examples of linear foreign bodies include strings, thread, yarn, and tinsel. Additionally, torn up towels, blankets, clothing, etc. can cause a linear foreign body. Statistically, cats are more often the victims of a linear foreign body than dogs, but dogs and cats of all ages and sizes can be susceptible. The most significant threat these items pose to pets is intestinal perforation.

Where items such as tennis balls, socks, or rocks sometimes get stuck because they are just too large to pass, linear foreign bodies will snake their way through the intestines before getting caught, causing the intestines to bunch up. Think about drawstrings on a hoodie: the tighter you pull the strings, the more tension, and the more the fabric starts to bunch up around the strings. This kind of continued movement can cause a tear or perforation of the intestines allowing intestinal contents to leak into the abdominal cavity causing peritonitis - which can be life threatening.

What are the signs of a linear foreign body?

Symptoms may include:

• Vomiting

• Abdominal pain

• Refusing to eat

• Having trouble getting comfortable, reluctant to lay down

• Abdominal swelling

• Hiding

• Lethargy

While not exclusive to a linear foreign body, you should contact your veterinarian right away if you are noticing these symptoms in your pet. Early intervention can be a difference of life or death in emergency situations.

How is a linear foreign body diagnosed?

Radiographs, or X-rays, are usually how foreign bodies are diagnosed. While we cannot always determine what object is causing the obstruction (for example, a string or sock is far more difficult to identify than something more solid like a rock or tennis ball), you veterinarian can see your pet's intestines on radiographs and determine if an obstructive pattern is present. Ultrasounds are also an effective tool in determining an obstructive intestinal pattern.

Additionally, your veterinarian may suggest blood work to gain an overall picture of your pet's health, especially if intestinal perforation is suspected. Blood work is a helpful tool in determining things like fluid loss, electrolyte changes, clotting capability, and more - all of which you will want to know the status of in the even surgery is required.

How is a linear foreign body treated?

While there are instances where foreign bodies can pass on their own with proper veterinary care and supervision, surgery is often required for linear foreign bodies - and the sooner this is addressed, the more likely a positive outcome is. Based on your pet's radiographs and presenting symptoms, your veterinarian may suggest an exploratory laparotomy - a surgical procedure in which your veterinarian will assess the GI tract and retrieve any foreign material creating an obstruction.

In some instances, particularly when the foreign body has been an issue persisting over several days, the fragile tissue of the intestines may become damaged or perforated, as we previously discussed. At this time, your veterinarian may remove any damaged areas of the intestine that might hinder your pet's ability to heal and recover.

Afterwards, your pet may be kept for hospitalization to continue IV fluid therapy and medications, have any repeat imaging, and be monitored closely by veterinary staff.

How can I prevent a linear foreign body?

While pets can be mischievous and get into things despite our best efforts, here are some of the most common scenarios for a linear foreign body to be ware of:

1. Holiday decorations - shiny things like tinsel or Christmas ribbon can appear appetizing to curious cats and dogs. If your pets tend to be fascinated with your holiday decor each year, it is best to opt out of these kinds of decorations or replace them with safe alternatives.

   
   

2. Shredded toys/bedding - if your pet tends to be a little destructive with their toys or bedding, be sure to monitor your pet's things and replace when they start becoming a little too tattered as it's possible that your pet could be swallowing pieces of fabric or stitching in the process.

   
   

3. Rope toys - possibly one of the most dangerous toys. Rope toys can pose a huge hazard to pets, especially for pets who like to pull apart or shred their toys. Dogs and cats who chew on the "fluffy" ends of the rope toys to pull out the strings may swallow threads in the process, which can easily become lodged in the intestines. We recommend opting for other types of toys, or only using rope toys under direct supervision (for example, playing tug-of-war in the backyard).

   
   

4. Sewing kits - if you are a crafty person and often have sewing supplies lying around, be sure that you are putting away any loose thread and needles when not in use. Just like tinsel, pets (especially cats) can be drawn to the shiny needle and mistake it for a play thing - resulting in pets swallowing the thread - and sometimes the needle, too!

   
   

5. Clothing - things like socks, pantyhose, or underwear (like thongs) are some of the most common culprits for a linear foreign bodies. Even if your pet doesn't usually bother with these things, be careful leaving these out for nosy pets to get into.

   
   

6. Dental floss - while not quite as common as some of the other things on this list, dental floss can pose a risk, especially if your pet tends to like to snoop around in your trash cans. Pets are more enticed by things that smell like us, which is why some pets tend to try and eat things like nightguards or retainers when the opportunity presents itself.

   
   

7. Fishing line - also not as common, but fishing line can pose a risk too, especially if the lines have or smell like bait. Make sure that all fishing equipment is locked up if you pet spends any amount of time in your garage to prevent them from accidentally swallowing a line or hook.

   
   

8. Plastic bags - be cautious about leaving plastic bags out where pets can get to them, especially ones that used to hold food! Dogs and cats may shred the bag to get to the contents inside, swallowing pieces in the process that can become long and skinny as they are being digested.

   
   

9. Jewelry - more risk associated with shiny things - are you noticing the trend here? We recommend keeping long, dangly, sparkly things like earrings, necklaces, and bracelets out of reach in a jewelry box to prevent sneaky pets from trying to snag your jewels.

In the event that you suspect or know that your pet has ingested something they shouldn't have, contact your veterinarian immediately for further instruction. Depending on what your pet ate and how much time has passed since they ingested it may influence your pet's treatment plan and immediate course of action. Do not attempt to make your pet vomit without consulting a veterinarian first. After consulting your veterinarian, monitor your pet closely and seek medical attention as needed. EARLY INTERVENTION IS KEY! Additionally, be sure to keep your veterinarian informed of any new or suspicious symptoms your pet may be experiencing.

Do not hesitate to reach out for help by contacting us at 972-347-6100.

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