Endoscopic Foreign Object Removal in Scottsdale, AZ
Dogs and cats are curious, and sometimes that curiosity ends with a toy, bone, sock, or other item stuck in the esophagus or stomach. At Salt River Veterinary Specialists, our specialists use minimally invasive endoscopy to locate and retrieve many swallowed objects through the mouth, avoiding abdominal surgery and helping your pet recover faster.
Common Objects Pets Swallow
Our team regularly removes items such as rawhide and bone fragments, toy pieces, balls, socks and hair ties, fishhooks, coins, corn cobs, and plastic wrappers. Some objects pass on their own, but others become lodged or are too large or sharp to move safely through the intestines. Prompt evaluation is important because an object stuck in the esophagus can damage the tissue within hours, and objects in the stomach can move into the intestines, where surgery becomes more likely.
Signs Your Pet May Have Swallowed Something
- Vomiting or retching, especially repeated episodes
- Regurgitation, drooling, or gulping
- Difficulty swallowing or reluctance to eat
- Abdominal pain, restlessness, or lethargy
- Missing toys or household items with a pet known to chew
If you saw your pet swallow something sharp or toxic, or your pet is vomiting repeatedly or in distress, contact an emergency hospital immediately.
How Endoscopic Retrieval Works
Under a brief general anesthesia, our specialist passes a lighted, flexible endoscope with a camera through your pet’s mouth into the esophagus and stomach. Once the object is located, specialized instruments such as graspers, baskets, and snares are passed through the scope to secure it. The object is then carefully pulled back up the esophagus and out of the mouth. After removal, our specialist examines the lining for damage and may recommend medications to help it heal. No external incisions are required.
Benefits Over Surgery
When an object can be retrieved endoscopically, pets avoid an abdominal incision, experience less pain, and typically go home the same day. Recovery is usually quick, with most pets returning to a normal diet within a day or two. Not every object can be removed with a scope. Objects that have moved into the intestines, are very large, or have caused perforation may require surgery by our surgical team, as described on our abdominal surgical conditions page.
Diagnosis Before Retrieval
Before the procedure, our team may use x-rays and ultrasound to locate the object and assess for complications. Pets with repeated swallowing problems or regurgitation may also be evaluated with swallowing studies for conditions like megaesophagus. Pets with chronic vomiting unrelated to a foreign body may be evaluated for inflammatory bowel disease.
Preventing Future Incidents
Choose durable, appropriately sized toys, supervise chewing, keep laundry and trash out of reach, and avoid cooked bones. Our internal medicine team is happy to discuss prevention strategies for pets that repeatedly eat non-food items. View our full list of veterinary services.
Foreign Object Removal FAQs
Can all swallowed objects be removed with endoscopy?
Many objects in the esophagus or stomach can be retrieved endoscopically. Objects in the intestines or those causing perforation usually require surgery.
How quickly should my pet be seen after swallowing something?
As soon as possible. The sooner an object is retrieved, the more likely it can be removed without surgery.
Does my pet need anesthesia?
Yes. A brief general anesthesia is required, and our team monitors your pet closely throughout.
Will my pet have stitches?
No. Endoscopic retrieval requires no external incisions, so there are no stitches.
When can my pet eat after the procedure?
Most pets can eat a bland diet within a day, though our specialist may adjust this if the esophagus was irritated.
Should I make my pet vomit at home?
Never induce vomiting without veterinary guidance. Sharp or large objects can cause more damage coming back up.
Can cats swallow foreign objects?
Yes. Cats commonly swallow string, hair ties, and needles, which can be especially dangerous.
Think Your Pet Swallowed Something?
Call Salt River Veterinary Specialists at (480) 819-8630 to discuss endoscopic foreign object removal. For after-hours emergencies, contact a 24-hour emergency hospital.