Foreign Body Obstruction
Aproximate Cost:
$1,400 - $2,500
What It Is
Foreign body obstruction surgery is performed to remove objects that a pet has swallowed which have become stuck in the stomach or intestines. The surgeon opens the gastrointestinal tract to remove the object, with subsequent closure to restore normal intestinal or stomach function.
Why It’s Performed
This procedure is done to relieve a blockage that prevents food and fluid from passing normally through the digestive tract. Obstructions can cause vomiting, abdominal pain, dehydration, and damage to the intestinal lining. Left untreated, they can lead to perforation, infection (peritonitis), and death. Surgical removal is often life-saving.
Risks Involved
Potential complications include infection, leakage from the intestinal incision, intestinal scar tissue or narrowing, and anesthetic risks. The risk increases if the intestinal tissue is already damaged or if the obstruction has been present for a long time, making early diagnosis and treatment important.
Typical Recovery Time
Most pets remain hospitalized for 1–3 days for fluid therapy, pain control, and close monitoring. After discharge, activity is restricted for about two weeks while the incision heals. A safety cone is used to prevent licking or chewing at the incision. Most pets make a full recovery within 2–3 weeks.
Our Approach
At Howard County Animal Hospital in Ellicott City, MD, we perform foreign body obstruction surgeries with precision and care. Our goal is to make high-quality surgical care accessible and affordable for local pet owners, and we provide clear, upfront estimates so families can plan for the cost of treatment.
*Requires Consultation
We are committed to offering affordable surgery options with transparent pricing. The cost shown are general estimates only, and a personalized estimate will be provided after your consultation.
We accept all major credit cards, Zelle, and cash. For clients interested in payment plans, we also work with CareCredit.
What’s Included in Our Surgical Costs
Our surgical prices are designed to be as transparent as possible and include:
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All charges typically associated with the day of the procedure
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Preoperative exam the day of the procedure
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Anesthesia and monitoring required throughout the procedure
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All perioperative injectable medications administered before, during and after the procedure to keep your pet safe and comfortable
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IV catheter and fluids to maintain vascular support during your pet’s surgery and recovery
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Detailed discharge instructions for at-home aftercare
What’s NOT Included in Our Surgical Costs
The following items are not included in the surgical costs and may be recommended or required depending on your pet’s individual needs:
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Pre-operative diagnostic workups to determine the underlying problem (e.g., bloodwork, radiographs, ultrasound)
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All diagnostics associated with your pet's procedure would be included (e.g. orthopedic surgery requiring post-operative radiographs, cystotomy with stone analysis).
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Pre-anesthetic blood work
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Optional for healthy pets under 3 years old for routine procedures, but recommended to help ensure the safety of anesthesia.
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Radiographs (X-rays) associated with diagnosing or planning the procedure
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Medications to take home (such as pain meds, antibiotics, sedatives or safety collars).
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If needed: Continued care at a local ER for monitoring and stability, recommended for unstable and sick patients.
We will discuss all recommended or required services with you in advance so you have a complete understanding of your pet’s surgical plan and costs.