Surgical Management of Linear Foreign Body-Induced Intestinal Obstruction in Cats

Abstract

Seven cats comprising four males and three females, aged between 6 months and 3 years, were presented with persistent vomiting  for three to four days, accompanied by discomfort, anorexia, and lethargy. All animals were vaccinated and dewormed; however, no  clinical improvement was observed despite medical management. Survey abdominal radiography revealed characteristic intestinal  plication suggestive of linear foreign body obstruction. Exploratory laparotomy was undertaken to relieve obstruction and prevent  further gastrointestinal compromise. Linear foreign bodies were identified in all cases, with thread extending from the stomach into the  intestine in six cats; notably, in four of these cats the thread was anchored at the base of the tongue. One cat had a shoelace causing  intestinal obstruction. Surgical management involved enterotomy with intestinal anastomosis where indicated. Postoperative recovery  was smooth and uneventful in all cats, with complete resolution of clinical signs and restoration of normal feeding behaviour. These  findings emphasize the importance of early diagnosis, careful oral & radiographic examination, and prompt, welfare-oriented surgical  intervention in cats with suspected linear foreign body obstruction.