BLOAT In DOGS

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.Gastric Dilation-Volvulus complex (GDV), commonly known as bloat is a complex, life threatening condition. It occurs mainly in large breed, deep chested dogs such as Great Danes, Dobermans and Setters, but can be a threat to any breed.

What is Bloat?
Bloat is a condition where the abdomen swells up, either with food or gas (or a combination of both). Untreated, the situation escalates to a point where the swollen stomach expands and twists on itself, blocking the inlet to the esophagus and the outlet to the intestines.

This is a life threatening condition that requires immediate emergency veterinary attention and possible decompression surgery. Success rates for emergency bloat surgery can be as low as 40%.

Common Causes
The most common cause of bloat is a feed of dry food, followed by a large intake of water, which causes the kibble to swell up. Exercise or play after eating can sometimes be a contributing factor to bloat. Foods that can ferment in the stomach and form gas are also a significant risk factor for susceptible dogs.

Myth: Drinking cold water is NOT a known trigger for bloat, so please don’t panic about this dubious information that appears on Dr Google every now and then.



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Tips for preventing bloat
Feed your pet a natural diet: a diet of balanced fresh meat is extremely unlikely to cause bloat as it is naturally moisture rich and does not swell in the stomach or produce significant gas.

If you do feed your pet dry food: feed small amounts at a single serving and restrict access to water for at least an hour after feeding and avoid exercise after meals.

Tip: Add some fresh meat to your pet’s diet to help to reduce any swelling. Soaking kibble before feeding your pet is also useful.