Bloat

BMD.ORG Bloat

Home	Breeder Referral	Rescue	Calendar
Breed Summary	References

Bloat is the common name for several related conditions in which a dog's stomach fills with gas. It is always a very serious emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention. Even with prompt emergency care the mortality rate is high so owners should memorize the signs of bloat and the location of the nearest 24 hour emergency veterinary hospital.

Terminology

Gastric Dilatation: The stomach filling with gas

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV): The stomach filing with gas and also twisting

Torsion: Another term for the stomach twisting

Prophylactic gastropexy: A preventative surgical procedure that tacks the stomach to the chest wall to prevent the stomach from twisting

Symptoms

Initial Symptoms

Anxious, restless, pacing

Trying to vomit-may bring up stiff white foam but no food

Salivating; Abdomen may be swollen.

Advancing Symptoms

Very restless, whining & panting

Salivating copiously

Tries to vomit every 2-3 min

Stands with legs apart & head hanging down

Abdomen swollen & sounds hollow if tapped

Gums dark red; Heart rate 80-100 beats/min

Temperature raised (104榻)

Print out this
symptom chart
for quick access

Treatment and Outcomes

Bloat is always an emergency. Rapid treatment is essential. If you suspect your dog is bloating find veterinary treatment as soon as possible.

Emergency treatment for bloat centers on untwisting and relieving pressure in the stomach, plus treating for shock. When the stomach swells and twists there is often blood flow loss and damage to other organs including tissue death. Therefore, even after the stomach is relieved there can still be very serious problems to manage. Hospitalization, IV fluids and close observation are routine. About 25% of dogs who bloat will die within seven days. Dogs who are physically depressed when they arrive for treatment are three time more likely to die. Dogs who are comatose are 36 times more likely to die.

Risk Factors

Large breeds

Deep chested dogs

Increasing age

Emotional Stress

Large meals

Rapid eating

Elevated food bowls

Previous bloat episode

Close relative who experienced bloat

Prevention

A surgical procedure where the stomach is tacked to the body wall (called prophylactic gastropexy) prevents the stomach from twisting. This is commonly done for dogs who have had one episode of bloat and are therefore at grater risk of another.