Treatment for Canine Peritonitis: Symptoms & Management

Dog Peritonitis: Causes and Symptoms

Acute peritonitis in dogs is often caused by direct damage to the peritoneum, perforation, or rupture of internal organs, such as the liver, spleen, or gastrointestinal tract. Chemical irritants, such as the injection of sulfa drugs, calcium preparations, or various disinfectants into the abdominal cavity, can also lead to sterile peritonitis. The spread of inflammation from adjacent organs can also trigger peritonitis. Chronic peritonitis typically develops from an acute form.

Acute Diffuse Peritonitis:

In the initial stages, dogs may experience a sudden rise in body temperature, lethargy, loss of appetite, and vomiting. They may be less active, arch their backs, and exhibit tense abdominal walls, with a sensitive abdomen to the touch. Breathing may become shallow and chestdriven, with a rapid and weak pulse. As fluid accumulates, the pain may decrease. As the condition progresses, dogs may experience gradual weight loss, dehydration, and anemia. The lower abdomen may swell symmetrically to the sides, and a dull, resonant sound may be heard upon percussion.

Localized Peritonitis:

While systemic symptoms and abdominal pain may be less pronounced, the affected area of the abdomen will be sensitive to touch.

Chronic Peritonitis:

General symptoms are slightly milder, and there may be no significant abdominal pain. Body temperature may rise slightly for a short period before returning to normal. Chronic peritonitis can lead to adhesions between the peritoneum and abdominal organs, and sometimes, it can be accompanied by ascites and edema.

Prevention and Treatment Methods for Dog Peritonitis:

Eliminate the cause of peritonitis by treating the underlying disease. In cases of peritonitis caused by trauma, surgical intervention should be prompt. For peritonitis caused by various factors, infection control is crucial, and antibiotics should be administered early. Options include penicillin, streptomycin, cephalosporins, enrofloxacin, and sulfadiazine sodium, among others. These can be supplemented with dexamethasone and prednisolone.

To stop the exudation of fluid, a 10% calcium gluconate solution of 20 to 30 ml can be used, or a mixture of 5% calcium chloride solution (5 to 10 ml) and 25% glucose solution (40 to 60 ml) can be administered intravenously. If a significant amount of fluid accumulates, abdominal tapping can be performed to drain the fluid, and 10 ml of 0.25% to 0.5% procaine penicillin can be injected. Additionally, a daily intravenous injection of 20 to 30 ml of 50% glucose, 0.5 to 1.0 g of vitamin C, 5 ml of 40% Urotropine, can help alleviate symptoms and prevent sepsis. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatments such as cardiac and diuretic therapy may also be necessary.