Foreign Body in the Nose
Foreign bodies in the nose of dogs and cats refer to the intrusion of objects into the nasal cavity that do not belong there and can cause various symptoms. The anatomy of the nose in dogs and cats differs significantly from the human nose. Both animal species possess a complex nasal structure with extensive turbinates and a highly developed olfactory epithelium. The nasal cavity is divided into two halves by a bony septum and connects to the pharynx via the choanae. These anatomical features make our pets’ noses particularly susceptible to the intrusion of foreign bodies, but also more difficult to access for their removal. While dogs have a longer nasal cavity with more space for turbinates, cats have a more compact nasal structure. Brachycephalic (short-headed) breeds such as Pugs or Persian cats have an increased risk of complications from nasal foreign bodies due to their shortened nasal passages.
Causes
The most common foreign bodies in the noses of dogs and cats are of plant origin. Particularly awns and ears of grasses like wild oats pose a significant problem, as they can move forward in a directed manner due to their barbs and cannot be easily withdrawn. Other plant parts such as seed heads, small twigs, or leaves can also enter the nose during intense sniffing. In cats, insects are additional potential foreign bodies that can get into the nose while hunting or playing.
Certain breeds and age groups show an increased predisposition for nasal foreign bodies. Hunting dogs with long snouts are particularly at risk due to their pronounced sniffing behavior. Seasonal clusters typically occur in summer and early autumn when grasses develop their seeds. During this time, the incidence of nasal foreign bodies in veterinary practices increases significantly. The environmental risk varies depending on the habitat – dogs and cats that predominantly stay in meadows, fields, or forest areas are at higher risk than purely indoor animals or those in urban environments.
Symptoms
- Intense Sneezing
- Itching, accompanied by scratching
- Nasal discharge, initially clear, later possibly mucoid, purulent, or partly bloody
The symptoms of foreign bodies in the nose usually develop acutely and can vary depending on the location, type of foreign body, and duration of presence. Characteristic early symptoms include sudden, intense, and repeated sneezing, often accompanied by pawing at the nose and head shaking. These symptoms are an expression of the foreign body’s irritation to the sensitive nasal mucosa.
As the condition progresses, nasal discharge typically develops, which is initially serous (clear) and can become mucopurulent (mucoid-purulent) or hemorrhagic (bloody) if the foreign body remains longer. An important diagnostic feature is the unilaterality of symptoms – the discharge mostly affects only the nostril where the foreign body is located.
In cats, characteristic snoring or wheezing may also occur. Behavioral changes such as loss of appetite, lethargy, or restlessness may accompany the local symptoms. In advanced stages, secondary infections with increased pus formation, swelling of the nasal mucosa, and chronic rhinitis can occur. If the foreign body remains for an extended period, tissue damage, ulcerations of the mucosa, and in severe cases, the formation of nasal abscesses or fistulous tracts can occur.
First Aid
- If you can see the foreign body in the front part of the nose, try to grasp it with tweezers that are not too sharp and pull it out.
- Do not attempt to grasp “blindly” with tweezers if you cannot see the foreign body.
- Do not use a cotton swab. You would only push the foreign body deeper into the nose.
If you remain unsuccessful, take your pet to a veterinarian.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of a nasal foreign body begins with a thorough anamnesis, in which the pet owner is questioned about sudden onset of sneezing, unilateral nasal discharge, and behavioral changes. Information about possible triggers, such as walks in tall grass or observed sniffing in plants, is particularly important.
The clinical examination includes careful inspection of the nostrils with a strong light source, where superficial foreign bodies are sometimes directly visible in cooperative animals. Palpation of the nose can provide indications of swelling or pain. Additionally, attention is paid to asymmetries, deformities, and the quality of nasal discharge.
Further diagnostics are usually required. Rhinoscopy is the method of choice. With a rigid or flexible endoscope, the nasal cavity can be examined under sedation or general anesthesia, allowing foreign bodies to be directly visualized and often removed. Imaging techniques such as skull X-rays can be helpful, with radiopaque foreign bodies directly visible and radiolucent materials indirectly detectable through secondary changes such as shadowing or fluid accumulations. In more complex cases, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be necessary to determine the exact location and extent of the problem.
Further veterinary measures
The therapy for nasal foreign bodies primarily aims at the complete removal of the foreign material. In cases of superficially visible foreign bodies, careful extraction with fine tweezers under good lighting can be attempted in some cases. However, this measure should only be carried out on cooperative animals and with clearly visible foreign bodies to avoid injuries or pushing the object deeper.
In most cases, professional veterinary treatment under sedation or general anesthesia is required. Rhinoscopy with special endoscopes not only allows visualization but also targeted removal of the foreign body with endoscopic instruments such as forceps or baskets. For deeper-seated or complex foreign bodies, a surgical approach may be necessary, with various techniques such as rhinotomy or access via the maxillary sinus being considered depending on the location.
After removal of the foreign body, medical follow-up treatment is usually performed. This includes antibiotics in case of secondary infection, anti-inflammatory medications to reduce mucosal swelling, and analgesics for pain. Nasal irrigation with physiological saline solution can help flush out remaining secretions or small foreign body fragments and promote healing.
Prognosis and aftercare
The prognosis for nasal foreign bodies is generally good if complete removal is achieved and no serious secondary damage is present. The timing of intervention is crucial for treatment success – the earlier the foreign body is removed, the lower the risk of complications and permanent damage.
Careful aftercare is important following the removal of the foreign body. This includes consistent administration of prescribed medications and regular check-ups with the veterinarian. In the first days after treatment, the animal should be kept quiet and protected from stress. The nostrils should be regularly checked for renewed discharge or signs of infection.
Possible complications that may require further treatment include persistent infections, chronic rhinitis, nosebleeds, or the formation of granulation tissue. In rare cases, structural damage to the turbinates or nasal septum may occur, leading to permanent impairment of nasal function. However, with timely and complete removal of the foreign body, a full recovery can be expected in most cases.
Summary
Foreign bodies in the nose are a common problem in dogs and cats, caused by various materials – predominantly of plant origin. The anatomical peculiarities of our pets’ noses make them susceptible to the intrusion of such foreign bodies, especially during certain seasons and in certain environments. The characteristic symptoms include sudden sneezing, unilateral nasal discharge, and behavioral changes such as pawing at the nose.
Diagnosis is made through a combination of anamnesis, clinical examination, and further diagnostics such as rhinoscopy or imaging techniques. The therapy aims at complete removal of the foreign body, which is usually done under sedation or anesthesia using rhinoscopy. Subsequent medication may be necessary to combat secondary infections and promote healing.
With timely intervention, the prognosis is generally good, although careful aftercare and monitoring are important to detect possible complications early. Preventive measures such as avoiding high-risk areas during the peak season for grass seeds can help reduce the occurrence of nasal foreign bodies.
Outlook on current research
Current research in the field of nasal foreign bodies in small animals focuses on several aspects. Improved imaging techniques such as high-resolution CT scans and specialized MRI protocols allow for more precise localization and characterization of foreign bodies, optimizing removal planning. Advances in endoscopic technology lead to miniaturized instruments with better optics and maneuverability that can reach even hard-to-access areas of the nasal cavity.
New approaches in postoperative treatment include the development of local antibiotic release systems that can be placed directly in the nasal cavity to treat infections more specifically and reduce systemic side effects. Research on regeneration of nasal mucosa after foreign body injuries could help minimize chronic sequelae in the future.
Another research focus is on developing preventive strategies, such as special nasal protection devices for particularly vulnerable dog breeds during the high-risk season or improved training methods to reduce sniffing in high-risk areas.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
- How can I tell if my pet has a foreign body in its nose?
Look out for sudden, intense sneezing, one-sided nasal discharge, pawing at the nose, and head shaking. It’s particularly suspicious if these symptoms occur immediately after being in tall grass or after intense sniffing. - Which animals are particularly at risk for nasal foreign bodies?
Hunting dogs with long snouts are especially at risk due to their intense sniffing behavior, as are young, curious animals and those that spend a lot of time outdoors, particularly in areas with tall grass or wild plants. - Can I remove a nasal foreign body myself?
Only if the foreign body is clearly visible in the front of the nose and your pet is cooperative, you can carefully attempt removal with fine tweezers. For foreign bodies located deeper or if there’s resistance, you should definitely consult a veterinarian to avoid injuries. - How urgent is a veterinary visit if a nasal foreign body is suspected?
A nasal foreign body should be examined by a veterinarian within 24 hours. In case of severe nosebleeds, noticeable difficulty breathing, or visible impairment of general well-being, an immediate emergency visit is indicated. - What complications can occur with untreated nasal foreign bodies?
Untreated nasal foreign bodies can lead to chronic infections, abscess formation, fistulas, structural damage to the nasal mucosa and turbinates, and in severe cases, infections of the sinuses or brain. - Is anesthesia always necessary for removing a nasal foreign body?
In most cases, yes. Sedation or general anesthesia is necessary to avoid pain, allow for a thorough examination, and ensure safe removal of the foreign body without causing injuries. - How can I prevent nasal foreign bodies in my pet?
Avoid walks through tall, dry grass during the main season for grass seeds (summer/early fall). Regularly inspect your pet’s fur after outings and watch for unusual sneezing or nose rubbing. - Can nasal foreign bodies come out on their own?
Most foreign bodies, especially plant parts with barbs, tend to move deeper into the nasal cavity rather than out, causing increasing problems. Therefore, veterinary removal is usually necessary. - How long does recovery take after removing a nasal foreign body?
In uncomplicated cases with complete removal, symptoms often subside within a few days. Complete healing of the mucosa can take 1-2 weeks, depending on the severity of the injury.
Are certain breeds more susceptible to nasal foreign bodies?
Hunting dogs like Beagles, Setters, or Retrievers are particularly at risk due to their intense sniffing behavior. In brachycephalic breeds like Pugs or Persian cats, foreign bodies may enter less frequently, but often cause more severe symptoms due to their already restricted nasal passages.
Literature
- A.C. Tenwolde, L.R. Johnson,G.B. Hunt,W. Vernau,A.L. Zwingenberger: The Role of Bronchoscopy in Foreign Body Removal in Dogs and Cats: 37 Cases (2000–2008). J Vet Int Med 2010, 24, 1063-1068
- Löwe, G. and Löwe, O. (2021). Emergencies in Dogs and Cats – A Veterinary Guide. Kynos-Verlag. 208 pages.
- Merck Co. (2020). Merck Veterinary Manual. 11th Edition. Kenilworth: Merck Publishing.
- Silverstein, D.C. and Hopper, K. (2014). Small Animal Critical Care Medicine. 2nd Edition. St. Louis: Elsevier
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