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Preventing Stomach Bloat in Dogs
also see Dog Upset Stomach
also see Dog with Upset Stomach
also see Bloating Medication
also see Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs
also see Gastritis in Dogs
Stomach bloat in dogs-when the stomach is bloated with dilated with air, food or water-is not only uncomfortable for a dog, but potentially fatal. Bloating causes intestinal upset, and a dog's discomfort can be seen by vomiting or retching, or anxious pacing.
Causes of Stomach Bloat in Dogs
Stomach bloat in dogs is believed to be caused by:
- rapid eating
- elevated food bowls
- dry foods that contain citric acid as a preservative
- dry foods that contain fat among the first four ingredients
- insufficient pancreatic enzymes
- dilution of gastric juices necessary for complete digestion, due to drinking too much water before or after eating,
- eating gas-producing foods,
- drinking too much water too quickly,
- extreme stress or excitement
- hereditary factors
Tips to Prevent Stomach Bloat in Dogs
- If you own a breed which is already susceptible to bloat, be aware of the early signs.
- Large breeds should be fed two or three times a day rather than just once.
- Have fresh, clean water available at all times but limit access directly after feeding.
- Avoid vigorous exercise and extreme stress or excitement one hour before and two hours after eating.
- Feed dogs individually and in a quiet area.
- Elevated feeders may or may not add to the risk, however, they are not recommended for breeds already susceptible to bloat.
- Any change in diet should be made over a period of three to five days.
- Despite all the precautions, a dog may still develop bloat due to being genetically predisposed.
also see An Introduction to Dog Digestion
also see The Five Varieties of Dog Worms
also see The Four Most Dangerous Dog Parasites
also see Managing Colitis With a Fiber-Rich Diet
also see Dog Vomiting: When You Should Worry
also see Treating Bloat in Dogs: 4 Helpful Tips
also see Dog Bloat: A Life-Threatening Condition
also see Bloat and Torsion - GDV