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INTERNAL MEDICINE > Internal Medicine Topics > Feeding Tubes
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Feeding Tubes
Feeding tubes provide direct access to the gastrointestinal tract to adequately nourish a pet who is unable, or unwilling, to eat on his own. Feeding tubes are often placed in cases of severe oral or esophageal disease, where the mouth and throat must be bypassed, or in cases of liver disease or metabolic disease, where adequate nutrition is essential for recovery. Many different types of feeding tubes are available, and most can be placed in a minimally invasive manner. Feeding tubes are generally very well-tolerated by both dogs and cats. Feeding tubes types include:
- Esophagostomy Tubes: These tubes are placed in the neck and enter directly into the esophagus. They can be used for short-term feeding, or left in indefinitely. These tubes can be used to provide nutrition to pets at home, after they have been discharged from the hospital. They are easy to care for and easy to remove, once a pet begins eating on his/her own.
- PEG Tubes: PEG tube stands for "percutaneous endoscopically placed gastric tube." This tube is placed in a minimally invasive manner, directly into the stomach, using specialized endoscopic equipment. The feeding port exits out the side of the abdomen. These tubes must be left in place for a minimum of two weeks. They are easy to care for and can be used at home to provide nutrition after a pet has been discharged from the hospital. A PEG tube can be left in place indefinitely and, if necessary, permanently.
- Nasogastric Tubes: These are small tubes which enter the GI tract through the nose. They are used for short-term, in-hospital feeding. They are easy to place and do not require anesthesia or surgery.
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