Foreign objects can range from soft material or string; to balls, stones and bones.

Loss of appetite and vomiting are the main signs. The loss of appetite may precede the vomiting by some time. Sharp objects or damaged intestine may produce pain. Although it may be possible to feel the obstruction through the wall of the abdomen diagnosis is usually made by Xray. Barium which is a liquid that shows up on Xray may be fed to outline foreign objects. Surgically opening the abdomen is also used both to confirm diagnosis and to allow for removal or correction of the obstruction.

Inussuceptions are mainly seen in young animals. The intestine folds in on itself forming a thickened tube of narrowed gut . The signs are those of obstruction with loss of appetite and vomiting. Pain becomes evident as the condition progresses and the gut becomes damaged.There is no clear cause however irritation and increased contractions secondary to worms or poisoning such as organophosphates may be a factor. The folded gut can be gently pulled apart during surgery in early cases however it is often necessary to remove the effected area of intestine.

Constipation can also act as a foreign body in severe cases.