What it is?

 

An intestinal foreign body means the pet has swallowed something that cannot pass normally through the gut. It becomes stuck (an obstruction), causing fluid and gas build-up and eventually pressure damage to the intestine.

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Common objects:

Dogs: toys, balls, socks, corn cobs, bones, rocks, string/cloth

Cats: string/linear objects (thread, ribbon, yarn, hair ties) — especially dangerous

 

Why it is an emergency?

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When the intestine is blocked, blood supply and movement stop.

This can lead to:

• Perforation (hole)

• Intestinal necrosis (death of tissue)

• Severe infection / sepsis

• Rapid dehydration/shock

• Linear foreign bodies (common in cats) can “saw” through the intestine, causing multiple perforations, which is why they are treated urgently.