Dog Abdominal Pain After Eating: Possible Causes

Symptom Analysis

Generally, gastric volvulus, a condition known as volvulus syndrome, is caused by the following factors. It is a common ailment in large dogs, typically occurring a few hours after eating.

At first, the dog's abdomen swells up, followed by dry heaves that result in no vomiting. The distress continues as the dog's breathing becomes rapid, and they start to drool, displaying signs of extreme discomfort.

If left untreated, the dog's tongue may turn blue, and the mucous membranes of the eyes may become pale, which is a serious warning sign that requires immediate attention.

Treatment Options

In essence, this is an emergency situation. If a large dog begins to exhibit pain after eating, it is crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. Having a portable oxygen tank on hand can be beneficial in case of an emergency. If the diagnosis confirms a gastric volvulus, surgery is required as soon as possible.

The timing of when the owner discovers the symptoms is critical, as early intervention can be lifesaving. It is imperative to rush to the hospital if there is a suspicion of gastric dilation and volvulus.

It is also important to note that if a dog is arching its back, dry heaving, and unable to vomit, appearing extremely uncomfortable, this is a cause for concern. In such cases, the dog may have difficulty walking and may need to be transported in a vehicle or carried to the vet's office. A detailed description of the dog's symptoms should be provided upon arrival.

Large dogs are more prone to this condition due to their deep and wide chests, which place the internal organs close to the chest cavity. Therefore, if they overeat and then engage in physical activity, they are at a higher risk of developing a torsion dislocation.

While small dogs usually do not suffer from this disease, those with broad chests can also be susceptible.

It is advisable to have a portable oxygen tank on hand for athletes at home, which may be useful in an emergency. If a dog's breathing becomes abnormal, providing oxygen immediately can be beneficial.

Additionally, large dogs may be prone to swallowing food without chewing, so it is important to be vigilant about this behavior in your pet.