Foreign Body Surgery

May 28

Foreign Body Surgery for Dogs & Cats in Seattle

If your pet swallowed something they shouldn't have, time is critical. Learn how Holly Vet Clinic diagnoses and treats intestinal blockages with safe, effective surgical care.

What is a Foreign Body Obstruction?

A foreign body obstruction happens when a pet swallows a non-digestible object—like a sock, string, toy, corn cob, or rock—that becomes stuck in the stomach or intestines. This condition is common in both dogs and cats and can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.

Common in puppies and curious breeds like Labradors and Frenchies
Cats often ingest string, hair ties, or dental floss
Obstructions block digestion and can rupture the intestine

Signs Your Pet May Have Swallowed Something Dangerous

If your dog or cat shows any of the following symptoms, especially after being left unsupervised or chewing on toys, seek veterinary care immediately:

Vomiting (especially if repeated or projectile)
Loss of appetite or refusal to eat
Abdominal pain (restlessness, prayer position, guarding)
Lethargy or hiding
Straining to poop or unusual diarrhea
History of chewing or missing household objects

X-ray of dog with swallowed foreign object – Holly Vet Clinic Seattle

How We Diagnose a Foreign Body

Our team uses a combination of physical exam, x-rays, and ultrasound to locate and assess the foreign object. In some cases, endoscopy or contrast studies are used to confirm the location and severity of the blockage.

Radiographs (x-rays): Show blockages and gas patterns
Ultrasound: Identifies soft-tissue or linear foreign objects
Bloodwork: Checks for dehydration, infection, or perforation

Surgical Removal: What to Expect

If the object cannot pass on its own or is causing symptoms, emergency surgery is needed. At Holly Vet Clinic, we perform foreign body removal with careful monitoring, IV fluids, pain control, and post-op support.

General anesthesia with pre-op stabilization
Surgical incision into the stomach (gastrotomy) or intestines (enterotomy)
Thorough inspection to prevent missed fragments
Sutures closed in layers to reduce leakage risk

Recovery is typically 10–14 days with rest, a bland diet, and pain management. Most pets bounce back well if treated early.

Concerned about cost? View our transparent pricing for foreign body surgery here.

Think your pet swallowed something?

Call Us Right Away

Or call (206) 656-8588 for urgent care. Serving Seattle, Kenmore, Bothell, and nearby areas with emergency surgery options.

Yun Yong