A dog may develop an intestinal blockage if they eat a toy or other non-food object, making it difficult for them to eat and poop. This problem can also happen as a result of tumors or physical abnormalities. An intestinal blockage is dangerous and may lead to an infection, rupture, or even death. Although some obstructions may pass on their own, many require surgery. Here's what pet parents should know about intestinal blockages in dogs, including causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention.
An intestinal blockage happens when something in the dog's gastrointestinal (GI) tract partially or completely obstructs digested material from passing normally. Also called a GI or bowel obstruction, it's a bit like a clogged pipe: the blockage impairs digestion and intestinal motility, preventing the dog from passing food and waste through the GI tract.
A partial blockage may allow the dog to pass some stool and gas, but the obstruction will eventually damage the intestines if not treated. However, a complete GI obstruction is an emergency that can swiftly lead to death if untreated. The longer the blockage remains, the more likely it will restrict blood flow and lead to necrosis (death) of intestinal tissues. Bacterial infections may develop, and the intestines can even perforate, causing the dog to bleed internally.
Signs associated with an intestinal blockage involve gastrointestinal distress and the cascade of problems that occur when the GI tract is not functioning as it should. Symptoms may vary depending on the cause, but most dogs will experience one or more of the following:
The signs of bowel obstruction may appear a few hours after the blockage occurs, but it may take a day or two in some cases. Initial vomiting, diarrhea, and appetite loss will precede a swollen abdomen due to fluid and fecal retention. The dog may become lethargic and depressed due to discomfort, and if the obstruction persists or worsens, dehydration and malnutrition will follow.
A dog with a partial intestinal blockage may have subtle signs at first, giving the impression of a simple upset stomach. Some dogs will continue to eat and act relatively normal. The dog may still be able to poop, but the stool may be loose or watery. Symptoms tend to get progressively worse over several days.
A complete intestinal obstruction will become very uncomfortable and rapidly present with more severe symptoms. The dog may vomit frequently and may strain to defecate with possible reduced stool output, however a number of pets can still show inconsistent symptoms.
It's important to contact a veterinarian right away if you notice signs of intestinal blockage in your dog. Don't allow mild to moderate signs to continue for more than one to two days as it can lead to irreversible damage. A dog with severe signs should be taken to the nearest emergency veterinary office for immediate attention.
The most common cause of intestinal blockage in dogs is the ingestion of a foreign body, but other conditions can obstruct the GI tract as well.
Some dogs will swallow the most surprising things, such as toys, bones, corn cobs, and clothing (especially socks and underwear), but these items are not easily digested or dissolved by gastric acids. Sharp objects can both block and perforate the lining of the GI tract, causing dangerous internal bleeding. Strings, rope, and similar items can cause a linear foreign body, an obstruction that can cause parts of the intestines to bunch up the way a drawstring cinches a hood or waistband. Contact your vet right away if you see your dog eat something that can cause blockage.
A growth or mass inside the gastrointestinal tract can gradually decrease motility and eventually grow large enough to cause a blockage. In addition, a tumor in the abdomen may grow large enough to put pressure on the intestines, blocking them from the outside.
Intussusception occurs when the intestines fold into themselves in a telescopic manner. Foreign bodies and tumors can lead to intussusception, but other potential causes include infections, intestinal parasites, and dietary changes. Intussusception may also occur as a complication after intestinal surgery.
Pyloric stenosis is the narrowing of the passage from the stomach to the small intestine (the pylorus) and can lead to GI obstruction. Pyloric stenosis may be caused by a congenital abnormality (birth defect) or may develop over time in older dogs for reasons unknown.
Your veterinarian will examine your dog and discuss their history before recommending further testing. If a GI obstruction is suspected, the next step is to perform X-rays of the abdomen to look for abnormalities.
In many cases, the dog will need to ingest a radiopaque contrast substance to aid in diagnosis. This contrast substance is typically barium, a white liquid that shows up bright white on X-rays. A series of X-rays are taken at timed intervals to watch the movement of the contrast travel through the GI tract. This allows the veterinarian to visualize the flow of the GI tract and determine the location of the blockage.
Blood and urine tests may also be needed to assess blood cell counts and organ function. These tests help your veterinarian assess your dog's overall health and determine the best treatment to support recovery.
Most intestinal blockages must be removed to restore normal GI function. This is often done through an abdominal surgery called an exploratory laparotomy. The veterinarian will open the abdomen, locate the blockage, and remove it. After this, the vet will examine the intestinal tissue to determine if permanent damage has occurred. If damage is present, the vet may need to remove part of the intestine. The intestine is then carefully sutured closed to allow healing and prevent leakage.
If the obstruction is in the upper part of the small intestine (upper duodenum) or stomach, an endoscopy may be effective in removing the blockage. This is far less invasive than surgery and may allow the vet to pass through the pylorus (the sphincter between the stomach and small intestine) and reach the upper small intestine. With the dog under anesthesia, a mechanical tube with a small camera is passed through the mouth into the esophagus. Special tools can be passed through the scope to retrieve or sample the obstruction. If a foreign body is found, it may be possible for the vet to grasp it with a tool and pull it out with the endoscope.
Though less likely, some foreign materials can pass on their own and will not require surgery or endoscopy. These dogs should still see a vet as they may need supportive care to recover fully. The vet will likely give your dog fluids for rehydration and medications to soothe the GI tract and prevent infection.
If the obstruction can be removed easily and there is minimal damage to the intestines, the dog should recover quickly and regain full health. More severe blockages with complications or the presence of a tumor may carry different prognoses based on the individual situation.
You can prevent foreign body ingestion by keeping trash and other dangerous items away from your dog. Make sure toys are too large to swallow. If your dog likes to chew up toys and eat them, only allow your dog to have them under direct supervision. Keep laundry in closed containers and garbage cans behind closed doors. Watch your dog closely when outdoors. If you know your dog likes to eat certain items, keep them out of reach.
Tumors and other intestinal conditions may not be preventable, but early detection can keep partial obstructions from becoming complete. It can also minimize the damage done to the intestines. Contact your vet for advice as soon as signs appear.
Visit the vet for a routine wellness checkup every year or more as recommended by your vet. There's a chance your vet will find a complication during the exam that you are not yet aware of.
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