Gastric Dilatation &Volvulus/Canine Bloat/Gastric Dilation
Gastric dilatation and volvulus, commonly called “canine bloat”, gastric dilation or GDV, is a potentially fatal condition in which a dog’s stomach distends with gas, food, and fluid (gastric dilatation)—and then possibly rotates or “twists” (volvulus).
This twisting blocks both the entrance to the stomach from the esophagus and the exit into the intestines. It also shuts off the blood supply to the stomach and other internal organs.
Distention and twisting may occur separately or together.
When the condition occurs, every minute before treatment is initiated is critical in determining the dog’s chances of survival.
The condition is more common in older, purebred dogs. The deep-chested breeds, such as Great Danes, Irish Setters, and Saint Bernards, have the highest incidence. The deep, narrow chest provides a greater opportunity for the ligaments that support the stomach to stretch, especially when the stomach is full.
Symptoms Of Gastric Dilatation/Volvulus:
Signs of GDV include:
- Abdominal swelling and tenderness
- Unsuccessful attempts to vomit (retching)
- Excessive drooling
- Restlessness or frequent change of position, often accompanied by whining
- Panting or labored breathing
- Staring at the abdomen, sometimes with a look of confusion or distress
If your dog exhibits one or more of the above conditions or behaviors—especially within a few hours of eating, call your dog's veterinarian without delay!
Diagnosis Of Gastric Dilatation/Volvulus:
Diagnosis of gastric dilatation and volvulus will involve a physical examination.
Radiographs (x-rays) of your dog's abdomen may be recommended to look for the characteristic gas or fluid filled stomach.
Ultrasound examination may be useful in diagnosis as well.
Routine blood tests may be performed to evaluate your dog's overall health status.
Often, monitoring of your dog's electrocardiogram will be necessary, as gastric dilatation and volvulus can predispose dog's to developing arrhythmia (abnormal heart beats).
Treatment Of Gastric Dilatation/Volvulus:
Minutes matter! Prompt treatment is essential for survival.
Treatment may involve removing the gas (usually by means of a stomach tube), washing out the stomach, and then closely monitoring for a period of time to be sure it does not recur.
In cases where there is a possible “twist” (volvulus), emergency surgery is required.
Surgical survival rate is not 100%, but it is the only chance your dog has in this situation.
The earlier surgical intervention is initiated, the more likely a successful outcome will be.
Once the abdomen is opened, it is possible to evaluate the stomach wall and other organs to better estimate the chances for survival.
If there is damage to the stomach wall, partial gastrectomy (removing the damaged tissue) may be necessary.
If the spleen is involved in the twisting, a splenectomy (removing the spleen) may be necessary.
Often in these cases, a gastropexy is performed, which involves attaching the stomach wall to the body wall in some fashion to avoid further twisting.
If arrhythmias (abnormal heart beats) occur, these will need to be treated as well.
Prevention Of Gastric Dilatation/Volvulus:
Even though there are no sure-fire ways to prevent these conditions, the following recommendations may help avoid it:
- Feed your dog 2-3 small meals/day instead of one large meal.
- Gradually introduce any dietary changes over a period of several days.
- Moisten dry food with water so the food expands BEFORE it is eaten.
- Avoid feeding table scraps or “people food".
- Do not vigorously exercise your dog for at least one hour before meals and two hours after eating.
- Don’t allow your dog to eat large quantities of food rapidly.
- Don’t allow your dog to drink large amounts of water before or after meals.
- If possible, observe your dog for 1-2 hours after eating, watching for the first signs of distress.
- Be especially watchful when your dog is under stress, such as being kenneled, hospitalized, or in training.
