Why is the stomach or tummy of my dog swollen?

BLOAT IN DOGS: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

Understanding the causes, types, prevention, and treatment of bloat in dogs is crucial for every responsible pet parent. Keep reading

Bloat: is the abnormal increase in the size of the abdomen or tummy. It’s locally termed a swollen stomach, tummy, or belly.

An increase in size occurs when the stomach or peritoneum fills up with gas, fluids, or food particles. Accumulation of gas, fluids, or food particles in the stomach and peritoneum is caused by a blockage within the gastrointestinal tract that prevents movement of GIT contents from one segment to another, which pile up above the blocked part of the GIT.

Dogs of all breeds, ages, and sizes are susceptible to bloating. Mostly puppies and old dogs.

Puppies are commonly affected by acute bloat, which is sudden and claims life within a few hours.

Old dogs are mainly affected by chronic bloat that has developed over a long time.

A big tummy does not necessarily mean that the furry baby has bloat. Obesity and pregnancy cause an increase in abdominal size, but the body parameters should be within the normal range.

Differences between bloat and normal increase in abdominal size.

NORMAL INCREASE IN ABDOMINAL SIZE	BLOAT
It’s due to obesity or pregnancy.	Caused by pathological factors, e.g., GDV, and intestinal strangulation. e.t.c
Body parameters are within the normal range.	Body parameters are out of the normal range.
No or slight change in behaviors	A significant change in behaviors
Normal or increased weight.	Loss of weight in chronic cases.

In this article, we explore causes, types, treatment, and prevention measures that reduce the chances of this condition occurring.

Types of bloat in dogs:

ACUTE BLOAT: develop within a few hours. It’s life-threatening and quickly changes the body’s parameters. The only way to get first aid is to rush to the nearest vet clinic or veterinary doctor.

CHRONIC BLOAT: develops over a long period, usually weeks or more. It is difficult to diagnose in the initial stages and has no or slight changes in body parameters and behaviors.

What dog breeds are more likely to develop bloat?

Deep-chested dog breeds are more likely to get bloated than shallow-chested breeds. These include St. Bernards, German shepherds, Great Danes, Retrievers, Rottweilers, Weimaraners, Doberman Pinschers, Akitas, Boerboels, hounds, etc.

What can I do if I suspect bloating in my dog?

Rush to the nearest vet doctor or vet clinic.

Call the vet facility to let them know that you are coming to handle it as an emergency.

Discontinue feeding or drinking.

Never attempt any home remedy unless prescribed by a veterinary doctor.

For acute bloat, any delays in getting medical attention can lead to a significant impact on your pet’s life.

How do I know if my dog has bloat?

The signs shown by a dog depend on the causes, type, and severity. These include:

Swollen belly, stomach, or abdomen beyond the normal contours.

Puppies develop a frog’s body shape.

Tense or hard abdomen

Abdominal pain

Excessive salivation

Panting

Pawing or looking at the abdomen

Retching

Whining

Stand with extended elbows.

Labored breathing

Restlessness

Lethargy

Emesis

Increased heart rate

Causes of swollen stomachs in dogs

Several factors have been identified as crucial contributors to bloating in dogs. These include:

Severe worm infestation

Ascites

Liver failure

Heart failure

Kidney failure

Sudden change in diet

Peritonitis

Bacterial infection

Viral infection

Gastric dialation volvulus

Intestinal Intussecption

Intestinal stragulation

Gastric ulcers

Trauma

Food allergies

Feeding highly fermentable foods

Retention of urine in the bladder

Pyometra

Ingestion of toxins

Eating a lot of food or taking a lot of water

Ingestion of a foreign body

Tumors

Stress

Raised bowel feeding

How can I treat bloat in my dog?

When a dog arrives at the vet clinic, the primary goal of the vet doctor is to stabilize the patient before any major procedure is taken.

Patient stabilization involves restoring heart rate and respiratory rate, decompressing the stomach using a stomach tube, or piercing a big-gauge needle into the stomach.

Commonly prescribed drugs include:

Probiotics

Antibiotics

Antiinflammatory drugs

Liver tonics

Diuretics

Deworming

Drainage of abdominal fluids

Spaying

IV fluids

Uterine flushing

Antiulcer drugs

Surgical interventions for GDV, intestinal strangulation, tumors, intestinal intussusception, e.t.c.

How can I prevent bloat in my dogs?

Regular deworming

Proper feeding

Avoid feeding dogs contaminated feed.

Routine vaccination

Do not exercise the dog immediately after or before feeding.

Prophylaxis gastropexy

Limit water intake after eating.

Spaying

Avoid elevated bowel feeding.

Maintain a healthy weight for a dog (avoid overweight or underweight).

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CONCLUSION:

It’s so frightening to think of your furry friend getting bloated. However, it’s your full responsibility as a pet parent to know the types, causes, treatment, and, more importantly, ways to prevent bloating.

Share this post with other pet owners to help them recognize the signs and take preventive measures to protect their pet’s health.