A linear foreign body is any sting-like object ingested (or paritally ingested) that causes gastrointestinal obstruction. String, ribbon, thread (often with needle attached), rubber bands, Easter grass and tinsel are common linear foreign bodies.
This type of obstruction can be life-threatening very quickly. Both cats and dogs can suffer from this, although as one could guess, it is much more common in cats.
Many times the history aids in diagnosis (cat was playing with sting, etc.) or there may be part of the string visible from the mouth, under the tongue or protruding form the anus. The pet may be actively vomiting, straining to defecate or lethargic.
String-like objects can "gather up" and shred delicate tissues like the intestinal tract, as shown in the diagrams of this article. It is important to not pull on any visible thread without veterinary supervision, as this can cause further damage. Often, surgery is required to remove the oject.
Related Reading:
FAQ: My Cat Ate A String - Should I Be Worried?
From your Guide
Case study (with photos) of ribbon ingestion by a cat
From Acacia Pet Clinic
Foreign Bodies in the Small Intestine
By Race Foster, DVM and Marty Smith, DVM
Text: Copyright © Janet Tobiassen Crosby DVM. All rights reserved.
Image: Kitten playing with string © toby-won-kenobi on Flickr
