Have you heard that around two million dogs get adopted each year in America?
As dog owners, we have to strive to keep our furry friends as well as possible. One crucial aspect of maintaining their overall health is understanding the dog digestive system. It’s helpful to be aware of common digestive disorders that can affect them.
Digestive issues in dogs can cause discomfort or even serious wellness issues. Read on to explore some of the most common digestive disorders in dogs. You’ll learn about their treatments as well.
Gastritis
Gastritis refers to the inflammation of the stomach lining. This can be caused by the following:
• Dietary indiscretion
• Ingestion of toxic substances
• Bacterial infections
Symptoms of gastritis in dogs include vomiting, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain. Treatment often involves fasting the dog for a short period to allow the stomach to rest.
It’s followed by a bland diet and medications to reduce inflammation and control vomiting.
Gastroenteritis
This digestion issue is defined as inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It’s often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Common symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration.
Dog care may involve withholding food for a short period. It’s followed by a gradual reintroduction of a bland diet. In severe cases, fluid therapy may be necessary to rehydrate the dog.
Pancreatitis
This condition is all about inflammation of the pancreas. It can either be acute or chronic. A high-fat diet can trigger it.
Dogs with pancreatitis often exhibit the following:
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
Dog health treatment involves hospitalization, intravenous fluids, pain management, and a low-fat diet. Severe cases may require surgery.
Intestinal Parasites
Intestinal parasites can cause significant dog digestive problems. These parasites can lead to diarrhea, weight loss, and a general decline in health.
Treatment involves deworming medications specific to the type of parasite present. Supportive care can address any symptoms or complications as well.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
IBD can cause symptoms such as chronic diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, and poor appetite. Treatment for IBD may involve dietary changes. This could include a novel protein, a hypoallergenic diet, or probiotics for dogs.
Dogs can also take medications to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms. In severe cases, immunosuppressive drugs may get prescribed.
Dietary Indiscretion
Dogs are notorious for their curiosity and tendency to eat things they shouldn’t. Ingestion of foreign objects, toxins, or spoiled food can spell all kinds of trouble. They can experience the following issues:
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal discomfort
Treatment involves removing the offending substance and providing supportive care to alleviate symptoms. It’s important to keep in mind that some obstructions might get stuck. In this case, the vet will need to perform surgery to clear the digestive tract.
Dog Owners Need to Know These Dog Digestive System Issues
Remember, a healthy digestive system is crucial for pet health. If you notice any troubling digestive symptoms, get in touch with your vet for an accurate diagnosis and powerful treatment.
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