Intestinal blockages in dogs are among every pet parent’s worst nightmares. The situation is critical and warrants immediate vet attention. In this article, I, Ivana Crnec, DVM, will explain the basics of intestinal blockage in dogs.
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Content:
- Dog Intestinal Blockage Timeline
- How to Tell if a Dog Has an Intestinal Blockage
- How to Clear an Intestinal Blockage in Dogs
- Conclusion
Dog Intestinal Blockage Timeline
Intestinal blockage is a medical condition in which normal passage through the dog’s intestines is obstructed. The condition progresses quickly, warranting immediate vet help.
Studies say that “Intestinal foreign bodies are some of the most common causes of intestinal obstruction in dogs and cats.” Around 80% of the cases are due to foreign bodies getting stuck in the dog’s small intestines, according to research.
Intestinal blockages evolve quickly. Without treatment, dogs with complete intestinal blockage can die within 3 to 4 days.
The prognosis is better for dogs with partial blockage; however, unless the blockage is removed, the risk of fatality is high, especially after a week.
Large obstructions manifest quickly, with vomiting being the primary sign. Smaller obstructions need time to become apparent, sometimes even more than 24 hours.
How to Tell if a Dog Has an Intestinal Blockage
You can tell if a dog has an intestinal blockage based on signs. Vomiting, loss of appetite, painful abdomen, nausea, lethargy, and straining to defecate are worrisome signs.
If you saw your dog ingesting a foreign body, pay attention to its pooping routine.
“If your dog is pooping the next day, it usually means it’s fine because the digestive cycle happens really quickly. If your dog stops pooping, I would be worried,” advises a Reddit user.
Use the Petcube Pet Camera to keep a close eye on your dog at all times. Dogs can be sneaky and swallow objects when you are away or simply not supervising.
How to Clear an Intestinal Blockage in Dogs
From feeding wheat breed to make a bulk and stimulate intestinal movement to feeding cat hairball remedies to increase lubrication, there are many approaches to helping a dog clear an intestinal blockage.
However, the best step is to take the dog to the veterinarian for a thorough checkup and proper treatment. Foreign bodies, the most common cause of intestinal obstruction, can be treated medically or surgically.
“Since some smaller objects can pass on their own with time, these may be medically treated and monitored for 48 hours. Surgical removal is needed if the object does not pass or your dog develops more serious signs,” explains Heather Berst, MA, VMD, in an article for Zoetis.
Surgeries for intestinal blockage in dogs are often cost-prohibitive. Having a pet insurance plan or an emergency fund can be life-saving in critical situations.
We strongly recommend the Petcube Emergency Fund. It covers up to $3,000 for emergency vet bills and offers unlimited access to online vets. You can get the fund at a 27% discount via this link.
Conclusion
Intestinal obstructions in dogs are caused by various issues, but foreign objects are the number one culprit. A dog with intestinal obstruction is in life-threatening danger and needs prompt vet care.
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