Stomach Torsion in Dogs – Symptoms and Treatments
Gastric torsion, or bloat, in dogs is a highly serious and life-threatening condition. Large dogs with deep chests are especially vulnerable. Immediate treatment is crucial for a dog's survival, making it essential to recognize the symptoms. Your knowledge can save your dog's life!
What happens when your stomach is twisted?
As the name suggests, gastric torsion involves the stomach rotating around its axis, typically one or half a turn. This rotation closes both the upper and lower stomach openings.
This leads to the rapid accumulation of gas in the stomach, causing severe abdominal distention. The pressure created is highly damaging to other organs. Blood supply is compromised, and airways are obstructed. If the pressure on the spleen, kidneys, and ultimately the brain and lungs becomes too great, the dog goes into shock, and the situation becomes extremely critical. If the stomach rotates a full turn, blood supply to both the spleen and stomach is cut off, putting the dog's life in grave danger.
Why does stomach torsion occur?
Veterinarians have observed a connection between gastric torsion and factors like:
- excessive eating or drinking
- ingestion of gas-producing items (such as uncooked dough)
- deep and narrow chests
- feeding large quantities of food
- play or vigorous activity after eating
- excessive water consumption
How to recognize stomach torsion
The progression of symptoms is rapid. The dog typically becomes:
- Restless
- Attempts to vomit unsuccessfully
- Stands or sits with an arched back
- Displays labored breathing
- Has a swollen abdomen
- Struggles to lie down
- Shows signs of pain
- May lick, nudge, or paw at the abdomen
- Experiences noticeable discomfort
One or more of these symptoms may be present. Dogs with gastric torsion are usually in severe pain. Some dogs become withdrawn, hiding and avoiding interaction, while others seek comfort and demonstrate clear signs of distress. If a dog goes into shock, they become unresponsive, with pale gums and a weak but rapid pulse.
Prevent stomach torsion: tips and advice
If you have a dog at risk, such as a large breed with a deep, narrow chest, it's essential to be vigilant for symptoms and take measures to reduce the risk of gastric torsion:
- Avoid feeding before physical activity; allow your dog to rest for 1-2 hours after eating before exercise, play, or physical training.
- Instead of feeding a few large meals, opt for several smaller meals throughout the day.
- Wait approximately 30 minutes after exercise before offering food.
- Consider serving moistened dry food.
- Wet or fresh food may be preferred (although there is no scientific evidence).
- If your dog drinks a lot quickly during activities like play or hunting, take breaks to prevent excessive water consumption.
Act immediately if you suspect a stomach twist
If you suspect your dog is suffering from gastric torsion, time is of the essence. Do not wait to see if your dog improves. Immediately head to a veterinary clinic or animal hospital and contact them as you travel.
Delaying or letting a phone call take time away from the journey can worsen the dog's condition, leading to complications or even death on the way to the clinic. Gastric torsion in dogs is a life-threatening and extremely serious condition.
Please read about Dog First Aid: What Every Dog Owner Should Know.
Written by: Caroline Alupo
Caroline Alupo is Petli's co-founder. She has a master's degree in ethology and is also a trained dog trainer and dog psychologist. She has 19 years of experience as a professional dog trainer. Read more about Caroline here.
Fact-checked by: Sofia Nälgård
Sofia Nälgård is a licensed veterinarian with degrees from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and the University of Copenhagen. She runs Smådjursdepån in Växjö, where she offers professional and personalized care.
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