Gorilla Glue Ingestion in Dogs: 22 Cases (2005-2019)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Toxicology

Background:

• Gorilla Glue, a common adhesive, contains methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI).
• MDI rapidly expands and hardens upon contact with moisture, posing a risk of foreign body formation in the gastrointestinal tract.

Observation:

• A retrospective study of 22 dogs with MDI glue ingestion was conducted across four veterinary hospitals.
• Common clinical signs included vomiting (n=11) and abdominal pain on palpation (n=13).
• Radiographs often revealed a gastric foreign body with gas, indicative of MDI glue expansion.

Findings:

• Surgical removal via gastrotomy or gastroduodenotomy was necessary in 15 dogs.
• Endoscopic removal was successful in one case.
• Conservative management was employed in 5 dogs, with one euthanasia due to obstruction and financial constraints.

Implications:

• Early recognition of MDI glue ingestion and prompt intervention are crucial for positive outcomes.
• Surgical or endoscopic removal of MDI glue foreign bodies in dogs generally leads to a very good short-term prognosis.
• Veterinary professionals should be aware of the risks associated with MDI glue ingestion in dogs and diagnostic/treatment strategies.