Foreign Body Ingestion (Swallowed Object)
urgentDogs & cats
Typical ER cost
$2,000–$7,000
Based on US emergency hospital invoices, 2024–2025.
Symptoms to recognize
- Vomiting
- Not eating
- Lethargy
- Abdominal pain
- No bowel movements
Typical diagnostics
- X-ray
- Contrast study
- Ultrasound
- Bloodwork
Treatment path
- Endoscopic removal OR exploratory surgery
- 2-5 day hospitalization
- Anti-nausea, antibiotics
Insurance coverage
Yes — accident or illness coverage applies.
Denial / appeal risk
Low if X-ray clearly shows the object. Higher if 'chronic GI signs' are in the chart.
Prevention
Pet-proof the home; supervise chew toys; remove strings/ribbons.