What Is Bloat In Dogs And What Causes It?

Bloating in dogs, or formally Gastric Dilatation Volvulus(GDV) is a condition that can be very fatal for your pet. Bloating in dogs is far more sophisticated than what you would call a mere discomfort as a result of excessive air in the gut. GDV in dogs is more complicated as it involves quite a horrifying twist. To be more precise, in cases of GDV, the stomach gets twisted anywhere from 180 to full 360 degrees of its normal position in the abdomen.

Not only do the gases, the fluids and the food cause the stomach to distend, but they are also trapped there, as the twisted stomach does not allow anything to escape. All methods of seeking relief, be it belching, vomit and defecation are blocked and this makes it a situation that can be fatal if professional assistance is not sought. Bloating in dogs is the number one cause of deaths in dogs and so, it is important to make sure your dog does not bloat. Bloating is common among Dobermans, Irish Setters, German Shepherd, Chinese Shar-Pei, Akitas, Newfoundland, Gordon Setters, Mastiffs, Great Danes, Irish Wolfhound, Rottweiler and Collie. The severe form of bloat is also common in the older breeds.

What Causes Bloat

In mild cases of bloat, causes are pretty much similar to those in humans. Dogs who consume too much and eat quickly tend to develop bloat and the same is true for rapid consumption of water. Ideally, exertion or strenuous activity, especially after a large meal is another cause of bloat.

The Symptoms Of Bloat

Symptoms of bloat in canines ranges from the most obvious, such as a distended stomach, to the most strange such as aimless pacing and walking as well as relentlessness. Bloated dogs also try to vomit but the efforts are futile. The restless movement, if the case is developing to a worse GDV condition may turn into fatigue, inaction and even listlessness. You should also watch out for whether the pet will not stop moving or won't move all and its just labored breathing. As the condition worsens, the dog's heart may start pacing and their gums may turn pale. If you witness any of these symptoms, you should take your pet to the nearest animal hospital immediately.

Bloating in dogs is an uncomfortable experience and a serious condition. In this regard, you should ensure that you monitor your canine pet's diet and ensure they are healthy.

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What You Need To Know About Bloat In Dogs

Canine bloat is a very serious condition that results in more dog deaths than any other illness except for cancer. Large dogs are especially prone to bloat, and it is something every pet owner should be able to recognize.

What is bloat in dogs?

Bloat refers to a condition where gas builds up in a dog's stomach, unable to be released. Sometimes, this occurs along with the stomach twisting on its axis between the small intestine and the esophagus. This additional symptom is known as gastric dilatation volvulus, or GDV. When the stomach is twisted, blood flow is cut off from the organ, resulting in tissue death. When bloat occurs along with GDV, the situation is much more serious, and is a leading cause of death.

What are the symptoms of bloat?

When it comes to bloat, it is important to act quickly. To do this, you will need to be able to recognize the symptoms right away. Bloat typically occurs after a dog eats or drinks, especially after exercise. Other symptoms include restless or anxious behavior, a distended abdomen, unsuccessful attempts at vomiting, pale gums, whining or whimpering, excessive drool, and difficulty breathing.

If a dog is showing symptoms of bloat, it is crucial that you get the dog to a vet as quickly as possible. If GDV is occurring with the bloat, it may be only a matter of minutes before the tissues of the stomach begin to die from lack of a blood supply.

What are the causes of bloat?

The exact cause of bloat is unknown, but there seems to be a connection with exercise followed by gulping food or water down quickly. In addition, large breeds seem to be more prone to bloat, especially those with larger, barrel shaped chests, such as the Great Dane and Boxer breeds. However even small breed dogs have been known to get bloat. Elevated food dishes are also thought to be a factor, as well as stress.

How is bloat treated?

Unfortunately, bloat is only treatable if caught very quickly. If you are able to get your dog to a vet as soon as possible, they may be able to insert a tube into the stomach to release the trapped gas. If the vet is able to stabilize the dog, he or she can then operate if necessary to untwist the dog's stomach. Once out of surgery, the vet will likely have to treat for dehydration, shock, or any complications that occurred during the incident.

How can bloat be prevented?

It can be difficult to prevent bloat, as it is still not known exactly what causes it. However there are a few ways you can reduce your dog's risk of developing this dangerous condition. Avoid feeding your dog one large meal a day. Instead, feed 2-3 smaller meals. Avoid elevated bowls, and don't let your dog have unsupervised access to food or water immediately following exercise or vigorous play. Finally, always have your vets number and the number of an after hours clinic handy in case of emergency.

Bloat can be a very scary condition for dog owners. However with proper vigilance and a little preparation, you don't have to live in fear of this deadly condition.

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