How Can I Tell If My Pet Has Ingested a Foreign Object?

Pets, especially young dogs and curious cats, often explore their surroundings by chewing and swallowing things they shouldn’t. From toys and socks to string and bones, foreign object ingestion is a common veterinary emergency. Recognising the signs early can help prevent serious complications like intestinal blockages or perforation.

Signs Your Pet May Have Swallowed Something They Shouldn’t

If your pet has ingested a foreign object, you might notice one or more of the following symptoms:

Vomiting (with or without food)

Lack of appetite or refusal to eat

Lethargy or weakness

Abdominal pain or bloating

Straining to defecate or producing small amounts of stool

Diarrhoea or constipation

Excessive drooling or lip smacking

Gagging, retching, or coughing

Visible distress, whining, or restlessness

Common Foreign Objects Pets Swallow

Some of the most frequently ingested objects include:

Toys and balls

Socks, underwear, and cloth

Bones (especially cooked bones)

String, ribbon, or wool (especially in cats)

Corn cobs and food wrappers

Rocks or pebbles

Rubber bands or hair ties

Plastic or wood fragments

What to Do If You Suspect Foreign Object Ingestion

If you believe your pet has ingested something they shouldn’t have:

Do not try to induce vomiting unless directed by a vet.

Do not wait for symptoms to worsen—blockages can be life-threatening.

Note what your pet may have eaten and when the symptoms started.

How We Diagnose and Treat Foreign Body Ingestion

We may perform a physical examination and diagnostic imaging (such as x-rays or ultrasound) to locate the object. Treatment depends on the object’s size, location, and type. In some cases, endoscopy may be used to remove the object; in others, surgery may be necessary.

Tips to Prevent Your Pet from Swallowing Foreign Objects

Supervise pets with toys and remove broken pieces.

Keep laundry, small objects, and garbage out of reach.

Avoid giving cooked bones.

Use pet-safe toys designed for your pet’s size and breed.

Regularly inspect your home for hazards, especially if you have a puppy or kitten.

When to Call Us

If your pet is showing any signs of discomfort, vomiting, or hasn’t eaten in 24 hours, call us. Foreign object ingestion can quickly escalate, and early treatment greatly improves outcomes.