Essential guide – Preventing canine bloat – 6 tried-and-tested techniques
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Canine bloat, also known as gastric dilation-volvulus (GDV), is a serious health concern among dogs. It affects breeds of all sizes, but larger dogs with deep chests are particularly prone to this condition. It is recognized as a medical emergency and can turn fatal if left untreated for more than an hour or two. This article explores the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for canine bloat.
Gastric Dilation-Volvulus Or Bloating
- Bloating is a disorder characterized by the swelling of a dog’s stomach due to trapped gas, which can lead to serious complications. In some cases, the stomach can become so distended that it twists, resulting in a condition called gastric torsion or gastric dilation-volvulus (GDV).
GDV obstructs the gastrointestinal tract and reduces blood flow to the intestines, leading to severe complications. Bloat can also result in secondary issues such as respiratory difficulties, stomach wall tears, and diminished blood flow to the stomach lining and heart.
GDV is Regarded As An Emergency
- Gastric dilation-volvulus (GDV) is a life-threatening condition that necessitates immediate surgical intervention. When the stomach distends and then twists, it compresses the major veins in the abdomen responsible for transporting blood to the heart. This compression compromises blood circulation and can lead to tissue necrosis.
In many cases, shock can set in within a few hours due to inadequate blood flow caused by stomach gas pressure. Accumulation of digestive toxins in the bloodstream further exacerbates shock. Eventually, the stomach wall may rupture, a process that can occur rapidly, often within minutes. The mortality rate for bloat in dogs ranges from 10% to 23%. If you suspect your dog is experiencing bloat, it’s crucial to seek veterinary assistance immediately.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Bloating can result from various factors. While veterinarians may not always pinpoint the exact cause, certain risk factors can increase a dog’s susceptibility to the condition.
Risk factors for GDV include:
- Large dog breeds weighing over 99 pounds have a 20% higher risk of bloat.
- Dogs with nervous temperaments, particularly when eating in high-stress environments.
- Dogs with a parent or sibling who has experienced bloat are at increased risk.
- Eating or drinking too much too quickly.
- Providing excessive amounts of food to your dog.
- Puppies and older dogs are more prone to experiencing bloat.
- Being thin or underweight.
- Dogs with deep, barrel-shaped chests.
- Dogs with a history of aggression toward animals or people.
- Strenuous activity immediately after eating.
- Eating dry food containing oil or fat or moistened food with citric acid as a preservative.
- Receiving only one meal a day or eating from an elevated food bowl.
Symptoms of Canine Bloating
The two primary indicators of GDV in dogs are a swollen stomach and retching. The abdomen feels firm to the touch and appears enlarged. Affected dogs may struggle to rise or even collapse, and their breathing may appear labored.
Common symptoms of bloat in dogs include:
- Swollen, rigid abdomen, predominantly on the left side
- Excessive drooling
- Attempts to vomit without success
- Sensitivity or pain in the abdomen upon palpation
- Signs of distress, such as panting, restlessness, or pacing
- A posture with the front half of the body lowered and the rear end elevated
- Pale gums
- Rapid heartbeat
- Collapse
Symptoms of bloat typically manifest within two to three hours after a heavy meal, although the condition may not always be linked to eating.
Preventing Canine Bloat
- It is highly advisable to take proactive measures to prevent your dog from developing Bloat/GDV, especially if you have a large or at-risk breed. Consider adjusting your dog’s feeding and hydration routine to mitigate the risk of canine bloat.
Here are several medical and lifestyle choices you can consider to minimize the risk of your dog developing this potentially fatal condition.
Feed Smaller Portions
- Instead of one large meal, divide your dog’s daily food intake into multiple smaller meals. This approach keeps the gastrointestinal system active throughout the day and reduces the likelihood of excessive gas buildup that can lead to stomach rotation.
Elevated Dog Bowls
- Elevated dog bowls can prevent GDV by reducing air intake while eating. However, this hasn’t been conclusively proven. Until further research is available, it’s advisable to maintain your dog’s regular feeding habits unless advised otherwise by a veterinarian.
Slow Eating
- If your dog tends to eat too quickly, consider using interactive or puzzle feeders to slow down its eating pace. These feeders engage your dog’s mind while eating and can help prevent it from gulping down its food too rapidly. Avoid using objects like bricks or large rocks in their bowls, as these can pose a choking hazard or lead to dental issues.
Interactive Feeders
- Invest in interactive dog feeders or food puzzles to make mealtime more engaging for your pet. Consider options that are dishwasher-safe and suitable for both soft food and kibble.
Mixing large and small feeders can help regulate the pace at which your dog consumes their food. Implementing these strategies can help reduce the risk of canine bloat and promote your dog’s overall well-being.
Avoid Feeding Before or After Exercise
- It’s advisable not to feed your dog immediately before or after vigorous exercise, as this can increase the risk of canine bloat. Waiting 30–60 minutes before or after exercise is recommended to prevent your dog from gulping air while eating due to panting.
Slow Down Water Intake
- Encourage your dog to slow down its water intake, especially before, during, and after intense physical activity. While it’s important for your dog to stay hydrated, excessive water consumption can also contribute to the risk of bloat. Removing the water dish after mealtime allows your dog some time to digest its food before drinking water. Eating quickly, followed by drinking a large amount of water, can contribute to stomach flipping or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) in some cases.
When outdoors, offer your dog small, frequent sips of water to manage their intake effectively. Consider bringing your water and a portable dog bowl to ensure access to fresh water. Additionally, there are specialized dog water bowls designed to slow down drinking, which can be particularly beneficial for larger breeds. Some dogs enjoy using a sipper water bottle attachment, which allows them to lick water at their own pace. To encourage your dog to use this, try applying a tasty treat like pet-safe peanut butter to the nozzle as an incentive.
At Autumn Trails and Veterinary Center, we provide the best urgent care services to keep your pets healthy and happy, especially in an emergency. We offer our veterinary services in Charlottesville, VA. To book an appointment, contact us at (434) 971-9800.
