Intussusception in dogs and cats Intussusception is an uncommon problem that can occur in the intestine where one part of the gut slides into the next part in a telescoping action. This can cause a blockage or particle blockage where food and intestinal contents cannot bypass this section of gut leading to signs of a gut obstruction. Here our vet describes what to look for and how an intussusception is treated. What causes an intussusception? What are the symptoms of an intussusception? How is an intussusception diagnosed? How is an intussusception treated? Can we prevent an intussusception? Still have questions? Are you concerned about your pet? Meet a vet online!Included free as part of many pet insurance policiesHelp, treatment and if you need it, a referral to your local vetOpen 24/7, 365 days a year Book an appointment What causes an intussusception?When the gut is inflamed (enteritis) an intussusception is more likely to occur, so any condition causing enteritis is a risk factor for an intussusception. Conditions include:Sudden dietary changesParasites for example wormsInfections - bacterial, viral or protozoalSurgeryForeign material in the gut or an obstructionTumours of the abdomenIntussusceptions are most likely seen in young animals with a history of some sort of gut disturbance. It can occur in both dogs and cats.What are the symptoms of an intussusception?The symptoms depend upon whether the intussusception is acute and causes intestinal obstruction, or chronic (been there a long time). Symptoms may include:Vomiting - often large quantities and persists over several days. Often cannot keep food or water downDiarrhoea - often with blood or mucus. Sometimes an absence of faeces altogether.Abdominal pain- reluctance to move, hunched up back, crying/whimperingAnorexia - not eatingNausea - drooling, not eating, lip smacking, lethargyIt is possible for the intussusception to be recurrent/intermittent, so sometimes these symptoms can come and goHow is an intussusception diagnosed?Your vet will take the history and perform a physical exam and if they are suspicious they will recommend imaging which usually involves ultrasound and x-rays to look for the intussusception. They may also recommend other investigations such as blood tests and faecal analysis to screen for other conditions and help look for any predisposing causes.How is an intussusception treated?Treatment is often aimed at addressing the underlying cause, so treating the inflammation that would have been a factor in the intussusception occurring. Usually surgery is performed to remove the piece of gut that has folded abnormally (an enterectomy) and re-attach the remaining gut. The cost of surgery for an intussusception will vary by geographical location, other factors such as how systemically compromised your pet is, length of hospital stay and how severe any underlying condition is, but can range from £1200-2500.Possible complications can include bleeding, breakdown of the sutures holding the gut leading to septic peritonitis, septicaemia or infection of the external skin wound.Other supportive measures are often needed, such as intravenous fluids, antibiotics and antacids, to help stabilise the patient. Recovery from surgery for an intussusception usually takes 10-14 days with a buster collar/medical pet shirt and strict lead rest with pain relief and sometimes antibiotics.Can we prevent an intussusception?We cannot completely prevent an intussusception occurring, but the below points will help reduce the likelihood of one occurring in your pet:Do not let your pet chew toys into bits that they can swallow, avoid toys like ribbon or string that they can easily swallow when playingKeep up to date with regular parasitic prevention treatment. This is usually a tape worming treatment every 3-6 months and a worming treatment for roundworm every 1 to 3 months, but your physical vet will discuss your pet’s individual needs with youIf your pet develops diarrhoea or vomiting, ensure you seek veterinary treatment promptly. Follow the veterinarian's advice and complete any courses of medication givenMake any changes to the diet slowly, mixing new food with the current diet over several days to a week, some dogs may need even slower changesMonitor cats carefully for hair balls, especially when they are moultingStill have questions?Book a video appointment to have a chat with one of our FirstVet vets for advice, treatment, and if necessary, referral to your local vet