What is 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.

When this occurs, rapid veterinary intervention is critical. The twisting generally results in shock leading to multiple organ failure and death within a matter of hours. Even with appropriate and timely medical care some dogs don't survive.

Risk Factors

Studies indicate that older purebred dogs--especially larger, deep-chested breeds such as Great Danes, Irish Setters, and St.  Bernards show a disproportionately high incidence of Bloat. However, body type may be as significant a risk factor as size. Basset Hounds and Airedale Terriers, both midsized breeds, consistently appear on lists of breeds most susceptible to bloat.

Bloat usually occurs within a few hours after a dog eats a meal. No single food type, ingredient, or feeding method has been shown to cause Bloat.

Diagnosis and Emergency Treatment

A veterinarian may be able to confirm dilatation simply by examining the patient. But to determine whether there is twisting, your vet will probably take an abdominal X-ray. Once your vet confirms Bloat, the patient must undergo surgery to empty, reposition, and secure the stomach. First the vet administers intravenous fluids to the dog to counteract shock. In addition the vet tries to relieve the gastric pressure caused by accumulated gas and fluids by inserting a lubricated, flexible tube down the esophagus and into the stomach. If the twist blocks access to the stomach, the vet may insert a needle through the dog's skin into the stomach to help release the gas buildup. The dog will require sedation for these procedures.

Surgery

After stabilizing the dog's condition the surgeon will open the dog's abdomen and may discover that Bloat has so irreversibly damaged the stomach or other abdominal organs that the dog could never lead a normal life. The surgeon may recommend euthanizing the dog to prevent further pain and suffering.

But if the prospects for recovery are more favorable, the surgeon proceeds--removing dead stomach tissue; suturing the remaining parts of the stomach together; and restoring the stomach to its normal, untwisted position. The spleen may also be damaged and be removed or part of it.

See Dog Talk Column September 2001 for signs of bloat and how to reduce the risk factors.