Common Canine and Feline Abdominal Diseases: Symptoms &

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Section 1: Gastrointestinal Disorders

Gastrointestinal issues in dogs and cats often stem from organ dysfunction or pathological changes within the stomach. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, belching, loss of appetite, hematochezia (blood in stool), and vomiting. The causes are varied, ranging from ingestion of foreign objects to parasitic infections and food poisoning. Here are some specific conditions:

1. Foreign Bodies in the Stomach

Foreign bodies in the stomach typically occur when dogs or cats consume indigestible items, leading to longterm accumulation or ingestion of unknown objects that irritate the stomach lining. This is common in young animals or small breeds, who often exhibit a high level of curiosity and a tendency to chew on anything they find.

Symptoms:

Loss of appetite

Vomiting after eating

Restlessness and depression

Possible immobilization or excessive movement

Gradual weight loss

Potential injury to the stomach lining, leading to vomiting blood or hematochezia, or even perforation.

Treatment:

Foreign bodies that are too large to pass through the digestive tract may require surgery to remove them. Without intervention, they can lead to conditions like gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, or peritonitis, severely impacting the pet's quality of life. Postsurgery, pets should be fed a liquid diet for 13 days, then transitioned to semiliquid foods. Recovery typically takes about two weeks. During this time, pets should rest and avoid excessive activity. A balanced diet with easily digestible foods, and avoiding rich or greasy foods, is recommended. Training to reduce the risk of ingestion is also crucial.

2. Gastric DilatationVolvulus Syndrome

Gastric dilatation is often caused by overeating or food passage disorders, leading to rapid stomach expansion. Gastric volvulus involves a shift in the position of the stomach's pylorus, causing food passage issues. These conditions often occur together and can be lifethreatening.

Symptoms:

Red or blue conjunctivae

Rapid breathing

Increased heart rate

Sudden abdominal pain

Restlessness or rolling on the ground

Difficulty breathing

Vomiting

Possible collapse

Treatment:

Immediate decompression of the stomach is necessary, and professional veterinary care is essential. If symptoms persist, surgery may be required to remove gas and contents. Postsurgery, pets should be fasting for 24 hours and fed a liquid diet for a few days, with restricted water intake and activity.

3. Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage

Gastrointestinal hemorrhage refers to bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, often caused by conditions like ulcers, liver cirrhosis, or liver disease.

Symptoms:

Vomiting blood

Hematochezia

Anemia

Dark, tarry stools

Pale mucous membranes

Increased respiratory rate

Lethargy

Weight loss

Treatment:

Immediate veterinary care is necessary to replace blood volume and stop bleeding. Nutritional support, easytodigest foods, and antiinflammatory medications may be prescribed.

4. Peptic Ulcers

Peptic ulcers are chronic sores in the stomach or duodenum, often caused by the digestion of the ulcer itself by stomach acid and pepsin.

Symptoms:

Loss of appetite

Vomiting, sometimes with blood

Abdominal pain

Increased thirst

Black, tarry stools

Weight loss

Treatment:

Medications to reduce stomach acid and protect the gastrointestinal lining are typically prescribed. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

Section 2: Liver, Spleen, Pancreas, and Peritoneal Diseases

Abdominal diseases in dogs and cats can also affect the liver, spleen, pancreas, and peritoneum. These conditions are diverse and complex.

1. Liver Cirrhosis and Liver Abscess

Liver cirrhosis is a chronic condition often caused by longterm or repeated damage to the liver, leading to liver enlargement. Liver abscesses are typically caused by bacterial infections and can vary in size and number.

Symptoms:

Muscle tremors and spasms

Muscle weakness

Lethargy or coma

Possible bleeding due to diffuse liver cell damage

Treatment:

Treatment involves removing the cause of liver damage, protecting the liver, and detoxifying. Supplements like bile acid liver protectants may be recommended.

2. Ascites and Jaundice

Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, often a chronic condition. Jaundice is caused by a disruption in bilirubin metabolism, leading to increased serum bilirubin levels and yellowing of tissues.

Symptoms:

Lethargy

Slowed movement

Weakness

Difficulty breathing

Vomiting

Decreased urination

Pale or blue mucous membranes

Treatment:

Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause, supporting the pet's recovery, and supplementing with vitamins and protein. Highprotein, lowsodium diets and controlled fluid intake are recommended.

For more detailed information on other abdominal diseases like gastritis, enteritis, hepatitis, and pancreatitis, refer to other articles or consult with a veterinary professional.