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Bloat
Bloat is a potentially fatal condition in
which a dog's stomach distends with gas,
food, and fluid and rotates or twists. The twisting action blocks both
the entrance to the stomach
via the esophagus and the exit from the stomach via
the pylorus.
Signs:
- Abdominal swelling and tenderness
- Unsuccessful attempts to vomit
- Excessive drooling
- Restlessness or frequent change of
position, often accompanied by whining
- Panting or labored breathing
- Staring at the abdomen, sometimes with
apparent confusion or distress
If your dog exhibits one or more of the
following conditions or behaviors--especially
within a few hours of eating--call your veterinarian without
delay!
Reducing the Risk:
- Feed your dog 2 to 3 small meals a day
rather than 1 large meal
- Gradually introduce any dietary
changes over a period of several days
- Premix dry kibble with water so the
food expands before it enters your dog's
digestive system
- Avoid feeding your dog table scraps
- Do not vigorously exercise your dog
for 1 hour before and 2 hours after meals
- To minimize the amount of air your dog
ingests while eating, don't allow the dog to eat large
quantities of food too rapidly
- Don't allow your dog to drink large
amounts of water before and after meals
- If possible, observe your dog for
signs of distress for 1 to 2 hours after it
eats
- Be especially watchful when your dog
is under stress (for example, during kenneling,
hospitalization, or showing)
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