Gastritis (Vomiting)

Gastritis is when the stomach lining is inflamed or infected. In most cases it presents with vomiting, diarrhea and can lead to dehydration. Gastritis usually is not severe, but if the vomiting persists for more than 24 hours, medical attention should be sought. Just like human Gastritis, canine Gastritis can be caused by a number things.

 

Causes:

• Bacterial infection in the stomach

• Ingestion of a foreign body

• Ingestion of spoiled food

• Ingestion of harmful chemicals/toxins

• Adverse reaction to drugs

• Metabolic/Endocrine disease in the body

 

Symptoms:

When a dog has Gastritis they usually present with the following behavioural and physical symptoms.

 

Behavioural:

• General discomfort

• Unwillingness to play

 

Physical:

• Vomiting (Green stained from the bile in the gallbladder)

• Diarrhea

• Weight loss

• Temperature (Anything above 38 degrees celsius)

• Black or bloody stool

• Dehydration

 

Prevention:

• Watch your dog carefully when let off the lead so he/she does not eat any rubbish or toxic substances.

• Provide your dog with a balanced diet and offer a variety of different carbohydrates.

• Put any "human food" out of reach from your dog so they are not tempted to eat it.

• Make sure any cleaning chemicals are not accessible for your dog to eat.

 

If your dog is prone to Gastritis or suffers from chronic Gastritis it is important to consult your vet to seek advice for a tailored diet plan for your dog. Be sure to record any food that upsets your dog’s stomach so it can be avoided in the future.