When a snail causes a crisis: Benji’s story

Benji, a much-loved cat, was referred to Davies Veterinary Specialists as an emergency after developing sudden and significant respiratory distress. What followed was a complex and unusual case involving a bronchial foreign body.

Earlier that same day, Benji had been found by his cat sitter in clear respiratory distress and was taken urgently to Hampden Veterinary Hospital in Aylesbury. Thoracic radiographs at the practice identified a foreign body lodged at the level of the carina, the point where the trachea divides into the main bronchi.

Following prompt assessment and stabilisation, Benji was referred to Davies for specialist care. We are grateful to the team at Hampden Veterinary Hospital for their swift recognition of the severity of his condition and for kindly granting permission to share the radiograph from this case.

On arrival at Davies, Benji was carefully assessed by the medicine team. Given the confirmed airway obstruction and his ongoing respiratory compromise, the decision was made to proceed promptly with advanced endoscopic intervention.

Under general anaesthesia, endoscopic examination of Benji’s airway was performed. Using specialised basket retrieval forceps, the obstruction was successfully removed.

Benji was closely monitored in the intensive care unit following the procedure and received supportive care, including oxygen therapy. He remained stable and was successfully weaned off oxygen the following morning, making an excellent recovery. He was discharged home shortly afterwards with a short course of medication.

Cases such as Benji’s highlight how quickly respiratory conditions can become serious, even when caused by something very small or unusual. They also demonstrate the value of close collaboration between primary care practices and referral centres in achieving the best possible outcomes.

At Davies, the team works closely with referring veterinary surgeons to provide timely, specialist-led care for complex and emergency cases, supporting both patients and their owners at every stage.