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Is NG tube suction safe for my cat with ileus? What are the risks?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Siamese | Male | neutered | 12 years and 1 month old | 10 lbs

How taxing is NG tube suction every 4 hours on a 13-year old cat for treatment of ileus? NG suction has been listed as the No. 1 cause of metabolic alkalosis in human patients. Does this finding also apply to cats? Is there a maximum threshold time limit of such treatment beyond which serious complication would occur?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on December 5th, 2017

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I haven't seen or personally documented metabolic alkalosis in cats or dogs after suctioning NG tubes. But it makes sense that it can happen. The main reason I would place an NG tube (besides to provide nutrition) would be to remove excessive gastric fluid to prevent regurgitation. Maybe every 4 hours is needed in the beginning but I would go to every 6 hours then wean off. The ileus should start improving with suction and with motility agents (metoclopramide) and with feeding. The use of an NG tube is temporary due to it being irritating to the pet. Esophagostomy tubes are more long term solutions for prolonged anorexia. Like I stated above with medications I would want my patient to not need suctioning and the ileus to have resolved quickly, like within 5-7 days maximum. I hope this helps and I wish Bernie the best!

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    Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 12th, 2017

    You would need to discuss this with the treating veterinary surgeon in order to assess the risks and benefits in light of Bernies current condition and previous medical history and also the likelihood of curative treatment whilst such invasive management is undertaken. Bernies quality of life must be the primary consideration and any intensive care measures such as this should be undertaken only as part of a full treatment program to resolve the underlying condition; if this cannot be achieved then it may be time to also discuss euthanasia if he is not able to maintain his own ability to eat/digest his food and maintain a normal independent life. There are many complications which can arise from NG tubes including electrolyte disturbances, malnutrition, infection, discomfort and aspiration pneumonia

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