Recognising the Signs of Bloat

Bloat is a life-threatening condition that acts rapidly and can lead to death within hours if not recognised and treated immediately. Unfortunately, the cause of bloat remains unknown at this time.

The scientific term for bloat is gastric dilatation-volvulus or GDV. Bloat is characterised by rapid and abnormal expansion of the stomach with gas (dilatation). This can be followed by rotation of the stomach (volvulus). This rotation closes both the entry to and exit from the stomach. The blood vessels are also closed down and blood flow restricted.

What follows is an increase in pressure inside the stomach, and compression of the surrounding organs. Eventually shock will occur as a result of the restricted blood flow.

• Bloat should always be treated as a medical emergency.
  
  
• Bloat can kill a dog within hours after onset.
  
  
• The cause of bloat is unknown.
  
  
• Bloat can occur in dogs of any age.
  
  
• Certain breeds are more susceptible to bloat, particularly deep-chested dogs (see list).

Stomach rapidly expands with gas then rotates on the long axis.Entry to and exit from the stomach is prohibited, causing blood vessels to close and restriction of blood flow.

Bloat is a true medical emergency and early identification and treatment is critical to survival. If you notice any of the following signs, seek immediate help from your veterinarian.

In the early stages of bloat, the dog will be very uncomfortable. You may see him pacing and whining, trying unsuccessfully to get into a comfortable position. He may seem anxious, may lick or keep staring at his stomach, and may attempt to vomit, without success.

Other signs can include weakness, swelling of the abdomen, and even signs of shock. Signs of shock are increased heart rate and abnormally rapid breathing.

If you notice these signs, call your veterinarian immediately!

• Whining
  
  
• Inability to get comfortable
  
  
• Pacing or restlessness
  
  
• Pale gums
  
  
• Unproductive attempts to vomit
  
  
• Abnormally rapid breathing
  
  
• Increased heart rate
  
  
• Anxiety
  
  
• Pain
  
  
• Weakness
  
  
• Swelling of the abdomen (particularly the left side)

The following guidelines can help manage the occurrence of bloat. These suggestions are based on suspected risk factors and are not guaranteed to prevent the onset of bloat.

• Feed small amounts of food frequently, two to three times daily
  
  
• Avoid exercise for 1 hour before and 2 hours after meals
  
  
• Do not allow consumption of a large volume of water immediately before or after eating or exercise
  
  
• If there are two or more dogs present, feed them separately to avoid rapid, stressful eating
  
  
• If possible, feed at times when after-feeding behaviour can be observed
  
  
• Avoid abrupt diet changes
  
  
• If signs of bloat are observed, seek veterinary assistance immediately.

Another recommendation is frequent feeding of a high quality, highly digestible food with normal fibre levels.

Feeding management offers the best method available for reducing risk until the exact cause of bloat can be identified. Although not 100% effective, these measures can reduce the number of dogs that face this serious, life-threatening condition.

• German Shepherd
  
  
• Bouvier de Flandres
  
  
• Great Dane
  
  
• Boxer
  
  
• St. Bernard
  
  
• Doberman Pinscher
  
  
• Bloodhound
  
  
• German Shorthaired Pointer
  
  
• Irish Setter
  
  
• Gordon Setter
  
  
• Borzoi
  
  
• Irish Wolfhound
  
  
• Dachshund
  
  
• Labrador Retriever
  
  
• Basset Hound