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===Diagnostic Imaging===
===Diagnostic Imaging===
====Radiography====
====Radiography====
*Plain abdominal radiography may be all that is needed to reveal the cause of the obstruction. Gas and fluid accumulation may be visible due to intestinal dilation. Gravel sign due to accumuamay be present
*Plain abdominal radiography may be all that is needed to reveal the cause of the obstruction. Gas and fluid accumulation may be visible due to intestinal dilation. Decreased serosal detail indicates peritoneal fluid accumulation and free gas in the abdomen suggests perforated intestines. Gravel sign due to food particle accumulation amay be present.
*Contrast radiography may be needed if ileus and obstruction cannot easily be distinguished.
*Contrast radiography may be needed if ileus and obstruction cannot easily be distinguished. However, this may not always be feasible in an emergency situation
====Ultrasonography====
====Ultrasonography====
==Treatment==
==Treatment==
===Stabilisation===
===Stabilisation===
Electrolyte and acid-base derangements are common in a vomiting animal. These need to be addressed prior to anaesthesia. Broad spectrum antimicrobials, such as a ampicillin or cephalosporin combined with metronidazole, are usually given prophylactically prior to surgery. This is vital if there are signs of sepsis or intestinal compromise.
===Surgery===
===Surgery===
Once stabilised, the animal can be taken to surgery. Removal or resection of the obstruction is required.
==Prognosis==
==Prognosis==
This depends on type and severity of obstruction. A simple obstruction with no signs of septic peritonitis has a good prognosis. A better prognosis in cases where there is no large resection of the intestines. On the other hand, the prognosis is grave if there are signs of metastatic neoplasia.