Summary:
The common dog stomach ache is the result of anything that can disrupt the normal emptying of the gastrointestinal system. Multiple problems can result including constipation and distension of the abdomen. Related symptoms include vomiting, nausea and appetite loss. Simple causes include over eating, foreign objects, poisons, allergies, motion sickness and parasites. In puppies, an immature disgestive system could be the cause.
In most dogs, problems will resolve on their own in under 24 hours. If problems last, or if you see signs and symptoms that are unusual for your dog such as changes in posture, vomiting more than 2 to 3 times, blood in the vomit, diarrhea or stool, or pain, then see a veterinarian. Do not ignore the problem since what can be treated early can work to avoid bigger problems down the road."
Stomach Pathophysiology
A dog's stomach is divided into two areas.
- Promixal Area: The promimal area takes in food and controls how liquids are pushed out of the body. The liquids travel through the pylorus.
- Distal Area: This region of the stomach breaks down and expels solids through contractions. The body has what is referred to as a gastric pacemakeer that regulates emptying. For example, when a dog is not provided with any food, the stomach and intestines will contract every 2 hours. The entire process is controlled by a hormone called motilin.
Causes
Dog Stomach X-Ray Indicating Obstruction Caused by Bladder Stones. Dog presented with hematuria (blood in the urine) and tympanism (abdominal sweling due to gas buildup). Lateral radiography showed gas accumulation in the stomach and intestines, and stones-like images at urinary bladder. Ultra-sound examination revealed five stones.
There are many possible causes for a dog stomach ache. These include:
- Problems with the electrical activity that controls stomach contractions (called myoelectric activity disorders)
- Metabolic disorders
- hypokalemia: low potassium levels
- uremia: kidneys not removing urea and other toxins through the urine
- hepatic encephalopathy: brain disease caused by toxins
- hypothyroidism: low thyroid hormonal levels
- Stress Response
- Stress, fear, pain or injury
- Medications (narcotics, B-adrenergic agonists, anticholinergics)
- Gastric Problems
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Abnormal nervous system function (Dysautonomia)
Symptoms
The major symptom associated with dog stomach ache is vomiting, which can occur any time after eating. A dog's stomach will be empty approxaimately 6 to 8 hours after eating. If a dog vomits undigested food 12 hours or more after eating, that indicates some type of stomach disorder or an obstruction that is preventing food from moving through the gastrointestinal system.
Other symptoms associated with dog stomach problems include:
- abdominal distension (abdomen appears to be bloated)
- nausea
- appetite loss (anorexia)
- belching
- weight loss
- abnormal appetite for nonfood substances such as dirt or grass
- bad breath
Diagnosis
A veterinarian will review common and less common causes of vomiting. Any emergency health issues such as obstructions or bloat will need to be quickly ruled out as a possible cause.
Tests include CBC blood tests and urinalysis. The veterinarian will also check for electrolyte imbalances and dehydration. A fecal flotation test is used to test for gastric hypomotility (ability to make normal bowel movements).
If the stomach is distended, then X-rays will indicate any gas or fluid buildup. If there is normal emptying of liquids, but not solids, then a liquid barium contrast study is needed. One new diagnostic tool is a smartpill which is swallowed by the dog, and then transmits data on time and temperature throughout the gastrointestinal system.
An endoscopy can detect any food that should not be in the stomach and obstructions. It is used when the caused cannot be determined using other easier to adminster tests.
Treatment
Home treatment of dog stomach ache should follow the following steps:
- No food for a day, with water only once the vomiting stops
- Feed your dog bland home-made food such as boiled chicken and rice
- As an option, add plain yogurt or probiotics to the food to bring down levels of inflammation in the intestinesConsider adding plain yogurt to the food
- Restore the normal diet after 1 to 2 days of feeding a bland diet
If dog stomach ache symptoms continue and are not getting better after 24 hours, then visit a veterinarian.
Most dogs are treated at home after being checked by the veterinarian. If any vomiting is severe, a dog may need to be hydrated and have electrolyte balances restored in the Vet's office. The diet may be changes to one that is low fat and low fiber, or that has more of a liquid consistency. Meals are reduced in size, but offered more times during the day.
Also remember to look for signs of GDV (bloat). If you see them seek emergency medical treatment. These include:
Most dogs will feel better after some minor changes in diet are implemented.
There are medications available that help with gastrointestinal contractions such as Reglan (Metoclopramide). Others such as Cisapride help the body transmit signals that encourage motility through the gastrointestinal tract. Some antibiotics such as erythromycin also help to improve gastrointestinal motility.
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Researched by: Jeff Grill
