Choke

Acute gagging and distress can indicate obstruction or irritation of the oropharynx and/or upper airways, which is true choke.  Esophageal foreign bodies can cause great distress, but these patients are able to breath and are not turning blue. 

Choke is often associated with objects, such as the dog who catches a slippery racquet ball in his mouth and can't dislodge it. 

If the circumstance is such that you know the crisis is related to such an object, a modified Heimlich maneuver is appropriate;  suspend with head down and give a sharp blunt press to the abdomen.  Object may come flying out.  This procedure is not appropriate for most other situations. 

Whatever else you do, you should be working your way to the nearest veterinarian with appropriate experience.

Pet Poisonings: Algae | Antifreeze | Chocolate | Easter Lily, Other Lily plants, and Cats | Garbage Intoxication | Grapes and Raisins | Household and Prescription Medications | Lawn and Garden Chemicals | Mushrooms | Poinsettias | Potpourri Oils | Rodent Poisons | Varmint Poisons, Other | Xylitol toxicity

Do you have a problem that requires urgent help? 

When in doubt, call one of our clinics!  Phone call advice is free and we will help you decide the risks.

608-274-7772