Have you heard of the stomach twist that dogs can suffer from? Upset stomach in dogs or Stomach Torsion Syndrome (SDTE) is a life-threatening, very painful emergency for your pet. During this pathology, the stomach twists on itself. This rotation obstructs the pylorus (the way out of the stomach towards the intestines) as well as the cardia (sphincter located after the esophagus, at the entrance to the stomach). This occlusion results in the retention of air, water, gases and food in the stomach which can no longer be evacuated. This retention causes the stomach to dilate.
THE’important stomach volume will compress the arteries and veins thus creating an interruption in blood flow. This ineffective infusion poses a risk of necrosis of the gastric wall. At the same time, the movement of the torsion risks causing rupture of the spleen and its vessels. This complication can lead to internal bleeding.
This pathological condition must therefore be managed in time in order to avoid cardiac and hypovolemic shock as well as significant renal complications. Discover our complete guide to help you identify the causes of stomach torsion, its symptoms and the means to apply to prevent and treat it.
Causes of stomach upset in dogs
Some breeds are more exposed to stomach upset in dogs, especially those of big dogs : German Shepherd, Labrador, Beauceron, Golden Retriever, Boxer, Saint Bernard, Newfoundland and Dogue.
The risk factors for SDTE in dogs that you cannot control are the morphology of their large thorax, old age and possible gastrointestinal illness.
However, you can act on several points that can cause the dog’s stomach to overturn:
- Rapid intake of an excessive amount of food or water, aerophagia, accumulation of gas caused by the process of digesting food in the stomach;
- A too short time between the meal and a physical activity (games, races, dog sports);
- Anxiety or stress during the meal (presence of visitors, other animals, mistreatment).
It is important to eliminate as many risk factors as possible in order to spare your companion.
Symptoms of dog stomach torsion
Consult your veterinarian at the first warning signs. Your dog is in great pain from this syndrome. The many symptoms of an SDTE really should be taken seriously.
- Difficult, panting and rapid breathing: caused by discomfort and pressure of the stomach volume against the diaphragm. The volume of inspired air is therefore smaller, which creates a drop in oxygenation. The dog must therefore hyperventilate to meet its needs.
- A restlessness: your dog is different from his habit, he turns and does not know how to calm down.
- Moans and salivation: caused by excruciating pain.
- Prolonged standing: your dog does not lie down or relax because he is inconvenienced.
- A swollen abdomen and stomach pain: caused by the dilation of the stomach.
- Tachycardia: the heart rate accelerates following the rupture of certain vessels or to compensate for the blood interruption caused by the compression of the stomach.
- Hypotension: the dilated stomach compresses the portal vein and the vena cava, thus reducing venous return, then cardiac output and thus blood pressure.
- Behavioral disorders: your pet scratches the ground compulsively, he rounds his back, he vomits unproductively.
- Pale gums and lips: the mucous membranes are whitish.
- Your dog no longer reacts: he is inert and no longer responds to those around him because he is in a state of shock.
Treatment and prevention of dog upset stomach
How to treat stomach dilation?
The torsion of the stomach is a vital emergency: your dog risks dying in the hours which follow without taking care of it! The diagnosis is confirmed by the chest x-ray of the animal. After making the diagnosis, your veterinarian will take action by performing surgery. After performing anesthesia, a gastric sounding helps decompress the stomach to release blocked gas as well as gastric contents. Blood tests are done as well as the placement of an infusion and the administration of oxygen.
The surgery allows the stomach to be repositioned correctly and therefore to reduce the torsion. The spleen is removed if it is ruptured. A gastropexy can be done to prevent recurrence: it is to stabilize the stomach by fixing it to the abdominal wall. Post-op treatment is based on the administration of painkillers and antibiotics depending on your pet’s condition.
How to prevent stomach upset in dogs?
Fortunately, there are several habits combined that will keep your companion from twisting the stomach. To start, fadjust meals and offer balanced rations: divide the daily ration into two parts (morning and evening), select a suitable size for the kibble. Then, reduce the ingestion of air during the meal using a anti-glutton bowl, and avoiding a raised bowl.
Offer water throughout the day to keep your dog hydrated by drinking small amounts over and over again instead of large amounts all at once. Your pet’s meal can make you feel very thirsty (especially kibble), so make sure that the amount of water ingested is not excessive. In addition, take a gourd of water for hydrate your companion during the walks. This will make your dog less thirsty and will not consume too much water quickly. Think about the bi-nutrition, an ideal alternative combining the benefits of wet food and dry food for a well hydrated and satiated dog who digests easily.
In addition, ensure a 3 hour interval between meals and physical activity for your animal. To do this, avoid games, walks and exercises directly after a meal. Finally, choose a quiet place for the meal time by guaranteeing your dog a serene place without visitors or the presence of animals that could disturb him.
If your pet has had a stomach twist in the past, your vet may suggest gastropexy to prevent recurrence. In view of the dire consequences of an SDTE, it is safer to prevent this condition than to cure it.
Be careful with the syndrome stomach upset in dogs which is a emergency vital ! Watch your dog for any symptoms. Take all possible preventive measures to prevent your pet from twisting his stomach so that his meal is a real moment of pleasure and good digestion. Naps to follow …