Foreign bodies in the airways
Foreign objects in the airways
A foreign object in the airways is a partially or completely blocking object in the larynxThe larynx is an organ in the upper respiratory tract that contains the vocal cords and is important for speaking, breathing, and swallowing. The larynx also serves as a protective mechanism that prevents food and liquid from entering the trachea., tracheaThe trachea, or windpipe, is a tubular organ that carries air from the upper respiratory tract to the bronchi in the lungs. It consists of ring-shaped pieces of cartilage that ensure it remains open., or bronchi. It causes Cough, Gagging, shortness of breath, and possibly cyanosisCyanosis refers to a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes, caused by an inadequate oxygen supply to the blood. It can be a sign of heart, lung, or blood diseases.. There is an acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. risk of suffocation, so it is an emergency.
Foreign objects in the airways (foreign body aspiration) refers to the penetrationPenetration describes the entry or permeation of a substance or organism into a body or material. In medicine, it can refer to the penetration of microorganisms into tissues or the insertion of instruments into the body. of foreign objects into the airways of an animal. In dogs and cats, these foreign objects can be located in various areas of the respiratory tractThe respiratory tract includes the organs and structures involved in the breathing process, including the nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs. – from the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. passages to the larynxThe larynx is an organ in the upper respiratory tract that contains the vocal cords and is important for speaking, breathing, and swallowing. The larynx also serves as a protective mechanism that prevents food and liquid from entering the trachea. and the tracheaThe trachea, or windpipe, is a tubular organ that carries air from the upper respiratory tract to the bronchi in the lungs. It consists of ring-shaped pieces of cartilage that ensure it remains open. to the bronchi and, in rarer cases, even to the small bronchioles. The anatomyAnatomy is the scientific study of the structure of living things. It deals with the construction and organization of organisms, including their systems, organs, and tissues. of the airways in dogs and cats differs in some aspects, which results in different risk profiles for foreign body aspirations.
Dogs are particularly at risk due to their often exploratory behavior, in which they examine objects with their mouths. Cats, on the other hand, are at increased risk of aspirating hairs or plant parts due to their grooming. In brachycephalic breeds such as pugs, French bulldogs, or Persian cats, there is an increased risk of airway problems, including aspiration of foreign objects, due to their anatomical peculiarities.
Foreign body aspiration always represents a potential emergency because, depending on the size and position of the foreign object, it can lead to a partial or complete obstructionobstruction refers to the blockage or narrowing of a hollow organ or canal, which hinders the normal flow of liquids or gases. In dogs and cats, an obstruction can occur in the digestive tract, airways, or urinary tract and often requires immediate medical treatment. of the airways. In the worst case, there is a life-threatening choking attack if the airflow is completely blocked.
Causes
Foreign objects that partially or completely block the airways → choking attack.
Smaller foreign objects lead to violent Cough and can usually be removed by your animal itself.
However, bone fragments or seed heads are sometimes inhaled. Such foreign objects can only be removed from the tracheaThe trachea, or windpipe, is a tubular organ that carries air from the upper respiratory tract to the bronchi in the lungs. It consists of ring-shaped pieces of cartilage that ensure it remains open. or large bronchi in a short anesthesia using an endoscope.
If you saw the moment a foreign object was inhaled, immediately take your pet to a veterinarian.
If your animal appears healthy, has an appetite, but coughs repeatedly, a foreign object in the lung could also be the reason.
Supplements
The causes of foreign objects in the airways are varied and often depend on the animal’s behavior and environment. The most common aspirated foreign objects include:
In dogs, toy parts, small balls, bone splinters, and food particles are particularly often inhaled into the airways. This often happens during play when the dog is excited and breathing quickly, or during eating. Blades of grass and plant parts, especially awns (parts of grass ears), pose a particular problem because their barbs can migrate deep into the airways.
In cats, blades of grass, plant parts, and hairballs are common causes of foreign body aspirations. During intensive grooming, cats can accidentally inhale hairs that form into hairballs. Small toy parts or threads can also be aspirated by cats.
Seasonal factors also play a role: in summer, the risk increases due to awns and other plant parts, while at Christmas time, fir needles or small decorative parts can increasingly lead to problems.
Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of foreign body aspiration. These include:
- Young, playful animals with exploratory behavior
- Brachycephalic breeds with anatomical peculiarities of the airways
- Animals with neurological disorders or swallowing difficulties
- Situations with increased excitement or stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. that lead to rapid, uncoordinated breathing
Symptoms
Foreign objects in the airways of dogs and cats
Typical Symptoms:
- Restlessness, sudden Cough/Gagging attack, “clearing throat” even though there is no infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.
- Paws to mouth, drooling, Restlessness
- Suddenly unusual breathing sounds, wheezing/stridor
- Shortness of breath with open mouth and labored breathing, sometimes panic,
Alarm signs:
- No/hardly any airflow (“silent Cough”),
- Blue discoloration of the mucous membrane (cyanosisCyanosis refers to a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes, caused by an inadequate oxygen supply to the blood. It can be a sign of heart, lung, or blood diseases.) due to lack of oxygen
- Collapse/unconsciousness, severe breathing effort
- AcuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. shortness of breath after playing/chewing/eating
- Collapse or unconsciousness with complete airway obstructionobstruction refers to the blockage or narrowing of a hollow organ or canal, which hinders the normal flow of liquids or gases. In dogs and cats, an obstruction can occur in the digestive tract, airways, or urinary tract and often requires immediate medical treatment.
Escalation/course:
- Seconds–minutes: rapid decompensationDecompensation describes the state in which a previously stable system (e.g., heart, liver, kidneys) can no longer maintain its function, and symptoms of dysfunction occur. It is often a sign of advanced disease. possible → immediately critical
- Briefly better, then severe shortness of breath again → foreign object still present
- Cough/Fever later after “swallowing” → aspiration pneumonia possible (hours–days)
The symptoms of foreign objects in the airways vary greatly depending on the size, position, and duration of the foreign object. Complete obstructionobstruction refers to the blockage or narrowing of a hollow organ or canal, which hinders the normal flow of liquids or gases. In dogs and cats, an obstruction can occur in the digestive tract, airways, or urinary tract and often requires immediate medical treatment. of the upper airways leads to acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention., life-threatening shortness of breath, while smaller foreign objects in the lower airways can cause chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. symptoms.
The following symptoms may occur with partial obstructionobstruction refers to the blockage or narrowing of a hollow organ or canal, which hinders the normal flow of liquids or gases. In dogs and cats, an obstruction can occur in the digestive tract, airways, or urinary tract and often requires immediate medical treatment. or foreign objects in the lower airways:
- PersistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. or recurrentRecurrent refers to a disease that repeatedly returns or worsens after a temporary remission or improvement. Cough that can be worsened by activity
- Abnormal breathing sounds such as rattling, whistling, or crackling
- Increased breathing rate or effort
- NasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. discharge, sometimes with blood
- Loss of appetite and decreased performance
- Fever in secondary infections
The symptomatologySymptomatology refers to the entirety of symptoms associated with a particular disease or condition. It describes how a disease manifests itself externally. differs depending on the location of the foreign object:
- NasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. cavity: Sneezing, unilateral nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. discharge, rubbing the nose
- LarynxThe larynx is an organ in the upper respiratory tract that contains the vocal cords and is important for speaking, breathing, and swallowing. The larynx also serves as a protective mechanism that prevents food and liquid from entering the trachea./Throat: Gagging, difficulty swallowing, voice changes
- TracheaThe trachea, or windpipe, is a tubular organ that carries air from the upper respiratory tract to the bronchi in the lungs. It consists of ring-shaped pieces of cartilage that ensure it remains open.: characteristic “tracheal Cough reflex”, whistling breathing sounds
- Bronchi: localized breathing sounds, chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. Cough, possibly Fever
In cats, the symptoms can be more subtle than in dogs. They often show less obvious Cough, but increased Gagging, loss of appetite, and withdrawal behavior.
First Aid
Removing a foreign object is always necessary.
- Open the oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. cavity and check whether you can see a foreign object, grasp it and pull it out
- Do not use instruments
- Apply the Heimlich maneuver → Heimlich maneuver (part 1)
- The animal’s body is grasped from behind/above immediately below the ribs. The hands are closed shortly behind the animal’s sternumThe sternum, or breastbone, is a long, flat bone in the center of the chest where the ribs are attached. It plays an essential role in protecting the heart and other organs in the chest. and a sudden pressure towards the lungs supports or creates an exhalation thrust so that the foreign object can be coughed out.
- Small dogs or cats can be placed over an arm in this way and, if necessary, fixed with one’s own body so that the animal’s back faces the body of the treating person. The animal’s head should be the lowest point of the animal. By tapping lightly, you can try to loosen the foreign object and transport it outwards.
- Repeat this maneuver several times,
- Even if your animal coughs up individual food particles, take your animal to a veterinarian.
Diagnosis
The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of foreign objects in the airways is based on a combination of medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits., clinical examination, and imaging procedures. The observation of the pet owner plays a crucial role in the suspected diagnosis, especially if the moment of aspiration was observed.
The clinical examination includes the assessment of the airways, the auscultationAuscultation is an examination method in which the doctor uses a stethoscope to listen to the sounds in the body, especially in the heart, lungs, and intestines, in order to obtain information about the state of health. of the lung, and the monitoring of vital parameters. During auscultationAuscultation is an examination method in which the doctor uses a stethoscope to listen to the sounds in the body, especially in the heart, lungs, and intestines, in order to obtain information about the state of health., localized breathing sounds or asymmetrical lung ventilation may indicate a foreign object. Examination of the oral cavity and pharynxThe pharynx is the part of the neck behind the oral cavity and nose. It serves as a passage / transit for air and food and plays an important role in breathing and swallowing. can be helpful for foreign objects in the upper respiratory tractThe respiratory tract includes the organs and structures involved in the breathing process, including the nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs., but many foreign objects are not visible from the outside.
Imaging procedures are usually essential for the definitive diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients.:
- X-rayX-ray is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create images of the inside of the body. It is often used to diagnose bone fractures, lung diseases, and other conditions. images of the thorax in two planes can directly visualize radiopaque foreign objects or show indirect indications such as air pockets, atelectasis (collapsed lung areas), or emphysemaEmphysema is a chronic lung disease characterized by over-expansion of the air spaces distal to the terminal bronchioles, accompanied by destruction of the alveolar walls. This leads to breathing difficulties and reduced oxygen uptake.
- Computed tomography (CT)Computed tomography (CT) is an imaging technique that uses X-rays and computer technology to create cross-sectional images of the body. It enables a detailed view of bones, organs, and other structures and is used for the diagnosis of injuries, diseases, and for planning medical interventions. offers a more detailed representation and can also make non-radiopaque foreign objects visible
- UltrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. examinations can be used as a supplement in special cases
The bronchoscopyBronchoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure in which the inside of the airways is directly viewed with a bronchoscope, a thin, flexible viewing tube. It can be used to take tissue samples or remove foreign objects. is both a diagnostic and a therapeutic procedure. With a flexible or rigid endoscope, the airways can be viewed directly, which enables precise localization of the foreign object. At the same time, special instruments such as forceps or baskets can be inserted via the working channel of the endoscope to remove the foreign object.
In some cases, a bronchoalveolar lavageBronchoalveolar lavage is a medical procedure in which a portion of the lung is rinsed with a small amount of sterile fluid to collect cells and other components for diagnostic purposes. It is often used to make a diagnosis of lung diseases. (BAL) can be performed to obtain samples for cytological and microbiological examinations, especially if secondary infections are suspected.
Further veterinary measures
Depending on how sure you are whether your animal has inhaled a foreign object (foreign body aspiration), various examinations take place.
X-rayX-ray is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create images of the inside of the body. It is often used to diagnose bone fractures, lung diseases, and other conditions. images are usually taken.
In the case of small foreign objects or foreign objects that cannot be visualized using conventional X-rayX-ray is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create images of the inside of the body. It is often used to diagnose bone fractures, lung diseases, and other conditions. methods, a computed tomography (CT) may take place.
Using bronchoscopyBronchoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure in which the inside of the airways is directly viewed with a bronchoscope, a thin, flexible viewing tube. It can be used to take tissue samples or remove foreign objects. (examination of the airways using a camera with a light source), the airways can be inspected, samples taken, and a possible foreign object removed.
If you are sure that your animal has inhaled a foreign object, a bronchoscopyBronchoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure in which the inside of the airways is directly viewed with a bronchoscope, a thin, flexible viewing tube. It can be used to take tissue samples or remove foreign objects. to visualize and capture the foreign object may be useful without prior X-rayX-ray is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create images of the inside of the body. It is often used to diagnose bone fractures, lung diseases, and other conditions. control.
In the case of a fresh aspiration, no surgery is primarily necessary.
If foreign objects are not removed, they can be the cause of chronic Cough and foci of inflammation in the lung.
Supplements
The treatment of foreign objects in the airways depends on the severity of the symptoms and the location of the foreign object. In the event of an acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. choking emergency with complete airway obstructionobstruction refers to the blockage or narrowing of a hollow organ or canal, which hinders the normal flow of liquids or gases. In dogs and cats, an obstruction can occur in the digestive tract, airways, or urinary tract and often requires immediate medical treatment., immediate action is required.
First aid measures for pet owners include:
- Carefully opening the mouth and inspecting the oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. cavity to remove visible foreign objects
- If foreign objects are not visible, the Heimlich maneuver can be used: Here, the animal’s body is grasped immediately below the ribs and a jerky compression of the chest attempts to transport the foreign object out
- In small dogs and cats, the animal can be held with its head down while gently tapping on the chest
Veterinary treatment includes various approaches:
- Endoscopic removal is the method of choice because it allows direct visualization and removal of the foreign object. This is done under general anesthesia with special grasping forceps, baskets, or loops.
- Surgical intervention: In rare cases, if the foreign object cannot be reached endoscopically or if complications such as PerforationA perforation is a rupture or hole in the wall of a hollow organ, such as the gastrointestinal tract or bladder, which can lead to the release of contents into the body and severe infection. Perforations are Emergencies that require rapid veterinary intervention in dogs and cats. are present, a surgical intervention (thoracotomy with bronchotomy or lobectomy) may be necessary.
- SupportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. measures: Depending on the animal’s condition, oxygen therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., fluid substitution, and analgesiaAnalgesia refers to insensitivity to pain, achieved either through the body's natural mechanisms or through the administration of painkillers. may be required.
- Drug therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions.: Antibiotics are used for secondary infections. Anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain. can reduce the inflammation caused by the foreign object.
After removal of the foreign object, careful monitoring is important to detect and treat complications such as airway stenosisA stenosis is a narrowing or constriction of a body channel or opening that can impede the normal flow of fluids or other substances, such as blood in arteries or air in the airways., pneumonias, or Abscesses early.
Prognosis and aftercare
The prognosis for foreign objects in the airways depends largely on the duration of foreign body exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats., the type of foreign object, and the timing of the intervention. With early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and successful removal, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is usually good. However, delays in treatment can lead to serious complications.
AcuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. foreign body aspirations that are quickly recognized and treated have an excellent prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. with complete recovery. In chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. cases in which the foreign object remains in the airways for a longer period of time, permanent damage such as bronchiectasis (irreversible widening of the bronchi), Scar tissue formation, or chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. infections can occur.
The aftercare after foreign body removal includes:
- Regular clinical check-ups to monitor airway function
- Antibiotic therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. for secondary infections, typically for 7–14 days
- Anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain. to reduce mucosal swelling
- In some cases, inhalationInhalation is the act of breathing air or other substances into the lungs through the nose or mouth. In dogs and cats, inhalation of toxins, smoke, or allergens can lead to respiratory problems. therapy to support mucosal recovery
- Restriction of physical activity for a few days
Follow-up X-rayX-ray is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create images of the inside of the body. It is often used to diagnose bone fractures, lung diseases, and other conditions. images or a follow-up bronchoscopyBronchoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure in which the inside of the airways is directly viewed with a bronchoscope, a thin, flexible viewing tube. It can be used to take tissue samples or remove foreign objects. may be indicated depending on the clinical course to confirm complete recovery and to detect possible complications early.
PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. measures should be discussed with the pet owner to avoid future incidents:
- Age-appropriate toys adapted to the size of the animal
- Avoidance of small bones or splintering chew toys
- Special caution with brachycephalic breeds
- Supervision during play, especially with young animals
Summary
Foreign objects in the airways represent a potential emergency that requires quick action. The aspiration of foreign objects can occur in dogs and cats of all ages, with young, playful animals and certain breeds having an increased risk. The symptoms range from acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention., life-threatening shortness of breath to chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. Cough, depending on the size and position of the foreign object.
The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is based on the clinical examination and imaging procedures, with bronchoscopyBronchoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure in which the inside of the airways is directly viewed with a bronchoscope, a thin, flexible viewing tube. It can be used to take tissue samples or remove foreign objects. being used both diagnostically and therapeutically. The therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. aims to remove the foreign body as quickly as possible, either through endoscopyEndoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a light source and a camera at the end) to examine and visualize the inside of the body, often for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. or, in rare cases, through surgical measures.
With early intervention, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is good, while delays can lead to complications such as chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. infections or permanent respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. damage. Aftercare includes drug therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. and regular check-ups to monitor the healing process.
Preventive measures such as using appropriate toys and supervising play can significantly reduce the risk of foreign body aspiration. Pet owners should be informed about the symptoms of foreign body aspiration and know how to administer first aid in an emergency.
Outlook on current research
Research in the field of foreign body aspiration in small animals focuses on several areas that aim to improve diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment. Innovative imaging techniques such as dual-energy CT allow for better visualization of non-radiopaque foreign bodies and could make diagnostics more precise.
The development of new endoscopic techniques and instruments is continuously improving the possibilities for minimally invasiveInvasive describes medical procedures or pathogens that enter the body or penetrate tissue. In medicine, invasive procedures can range from minimally invasive techniques to open surgery. removal of foreign bodies. Flexible endoscopes with higher resolution and specialized gripping tools allow access to deeper respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. areas. Robot-assisted endoscopyEndoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a light source and a camera at the end) to examine and visualize the inside of the body, often for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. is under development and could enable more precise interventions in the future.
Studies on aftercare are investigating the optimal use of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain. after foreign body removal. The role of inhalationInhalation is the act of breathing air or other substances into the lungs through the nose or mouth. In dogs and cats, inhalation of toxins, smoke, or allergens can lead to respiratory problems. therapies and physiotherapyVeterinary physiotherapy encompasses a range of treatment methods aimed at improving the mobility and well-being of animals through exercise, massage, and other manual techniques. to support respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. function is also being explored.
Another research focus is on identifying genetic factors that lead to anatomical peculiarities of the respiratory tractThe respiratory tract includes the organs and structures involved in the breathing process, including the nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs. in certain breeds and increase the risk of aspiration. In the long term, this could lead to more targeted breeding programs to reduce these risks.
The development of algorithms for the early detection of respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. problems through portable sensors that analyze breathing sounds represents a promising approach to detect foreign body aspirations early, before serious symptoms occur.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
- How do I recognize if my animal has inhaled a foreign object?
Pay attention to sudden Cough, Gagging, shortness of breath, abnormal breathing sounds, or panic. If the airway is completely blocked, the mucous membranes may turn bluish. - Which objects are most often aspirated by dogs and cats?
In dogs, it is often toy parts, bone splinters, and awns; in cats, it is often blades of grass, plant parts, and hairballs. - How do I perform the Heimlich maneuver on my pet?
Grasp your animal’s abdomenThe abdomen, also known as the abdominal cavity, is the part of the body located between the rib cage and the pelvis. It houses several important organs, including the stomach, liver, kidneys, intestines, and spleen. below the rib cage and use both hands to make jerky upward and inward pressure movements. For small animals, you can hold it with its head down and gently tap on the chest. - Can a foreign object in the airways come out on its own?
Small foreign objects can sometimes be coughed up. However, larger or barbed objects such as awns usually get stuck and must be removed by a veterinarian. - How long does recovery take after foreign body removal?
In uncomplicated cases, the animals recover within a few days. In chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. cases with secondary infections, recovery can take several weeks. - Are certain dog or cat breeds particularly at risk?
Yes, brachycephalic (short-headed) breeds such as pugs, French bulldogs, or Persian cats have an increased risk due to their anatomyAnatomy is the scientific study of the structure of living things. It deals with the construction and organization of organisms, including their systems, organs, and tissues.. - What long-term consequences can occur after foreign body aspiration?
Possible long-term consequences include chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. bronchitis, bronchiectasis, Scar tissue formation with airway narrowing, or recurrentRecurrent refers to a disease that repeatedly returns or worsens after a temporary remission or improvement. pneumonias. - How can I prevent my animal from aspirating foreign objects?
Use age-appropriate, size-adjusted toys, avoid small bones or splintering chew toys, and supervise your animal while playing. - Is anesthesia always necessary for the removal of a foreign object?
For a thorough examination and safe removal, general anesthesiaGeneral anesthesia is a medical procedure that induces unconsciousness and eliminates pain during surgical procedures. It involves the use of anesthetics to temporarily shut down the body's overall perception. is required in most cases to avoid stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. and Pain and to be able to optimally visualize the airways. - What does the treatment of foreign body aspiration cost?
The costs vary depending on the complexity of the case but can be significant. They include diagnostics (X-rayX-ray is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create images of the inside of the body. It is often used to diagnose bone fractures, lung diseases, and other conditions., CT), anesthesiaAnesthesia refers to the state of insensitivity to pain and can be partial (local anesthesia) or for the entire body (general anesthesia). It is used to keep patients pain-free during surgical procedures., bronchoscopyBronchoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure in which the inside of the airways is directly viewed with a bronchoscope, a thin, flexible viewing tube. It can be used to take tissue samples or remove foreign objects., and aftercare. Pet health insurance can cover these costs in part or in full.
Literature
- Bottero, E., Bellino, C., De Lorenzi, D., Ratto, A., Gianella, P., Odore, R., & D’Angelo, A. (2022). Clinical evaluation and endoscopic classification of bronchomalacia in dogs. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 36(1), 108–118. https://doi.org/10.1111/jvim.16296
- Löwe, G., & Löwe, O. (2021). Notfälle bei Hund und Katze – Ein tierärztlicher Ratgeber (208 S.). Kynos-Verlag.
- Manens, J., Ricci, R., Zaffora, C., D’Addazio, E., Birettoni, F., & Pneumologia, C. (2021). Comparison of computed tomographic and bronchoscopic findings in cats with bronchial disease. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 23(4), 242–250. https://doi.org/10.1177/1098612X20978812
- Reinero, C. R., & DeClue, A. E. (2020). Advances in the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory disease in dogs and cats. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 50(2), 419–438. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cvsm.2019.11.003
- Tappin, S. W. (2020). Canine tracheal collapse. Journal of Small Animal Practice, 57(1), 9–17. https://doi.org/10.1111/jsap.13103
- Tenwolde, A. C., Johnson, L. R., Hunt, G. B., Vernau, W., & Zwingenberger, A. L. (2019). The role of bronchoscopy in foreign body removal in dogs and cats: 37 cases (2000–2008). Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 33(5), 2160–2169. https://doi.org/10.1111/jvim.15577