Pet experts have warned dog owners to keep an eye out for signs of bloating in dogs or risk a fatal trip to the vets.
Online shop Pet Lab Co posts content about how to keep your pets healthy and safe on their TikTok account. Their informative videos include the likes of health benefits in certain dog foods, how to protect your dogs in the summer, and hydration tips.
The latest video includes six warning signs of bloating in dogs, including when to get emergency treatment for your pooch. Read on below to find out more about what the experts said.
What is bloating in dogs?
According to Pet Lab Co, bloat is when a dog's stomach expands with gas or fluid. As explained in their video, the bloating puts pressure on the organs, which can cause the stomach to twist or tear - and can cause a fatal outcome within an hour.
Six signs of bloating in dogs
According to the experts, these six symptoms could be a sign of bloating in dogs:
- Drooling
- Swollen abdomen
- Being anxious
- Pacing
- Pale gums
- Trying to vomit
Pet Lab Co added: "Bloat is a serious condition, so take these steps to reduce the risk:
- Let your dog rest for 60 to 90 minutes after each meal
- Limit the amount of water they have after eating
- Avoid exercise and play after meal time."
Can bloating in dogs be treated?
According to PetMD, all cases of bloat require immediate medical attention to determine the severity. If bloat is treated immediately, it is often curable.
They said: "Simple bloat, where the dog’s stomach has not twisted, can sometimes be managed without medication, but may require fluids or other treatments.
"In severe cases of bloat, a dog’s stomach twists and fills with gas. This is called gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) and is considered one of the most painful, severe emergencies in veterinary medicine.
"This degree of bloat cuts off blood flow to the stomach and the lower half of the body, making it impossible for food to pass into the intestine.
"In extreme cases of GDV, a dog’s stomach can rupture, and the spleen can also be injured.
"This is a very serious health emergency and, if untreated, a dog with GDV will die within hours."
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