Surgical Removal of Foreign Bodies in the Gastrointestinal Tract of Monocellate Cobra, Naja kaouthia

Abstract

A wild-captured female monocellate cobra (Naja kaouthia) had abnormal posture and move with difficulty as consequences of swelling at the middle third of the body. The swelling area was firm on palpation with average size of 10x4 cm. The shape of the swelling area was similar to a small bottle which was obviously recognized on the dorsal recumbency. Therefore, the foreign body obstruction in gastrointestinal tract was diagnosed without radiographic examination. Digital manipulation was performed, but could not move the foreign bodies. Therefore, gastrotomy was considered. The foreign bodies were a plastic bottle and a piece of cloth which were removed. Feeding was withdrawn for one week with parenteral supportive treatment with fluid. The snake fully recovered 1 month after surgery.