Bloat (Gastric Dilation / Volvulus)

Bloat is a life threatening problem requiring immediate intensive treatment. It is seen most commonly in large and giant breed dogs such as Great Danes, St. Bernard, Irish Wolfhounds and German Shepards. It is often associated with overeating or eating unusual foods, but some dogs bloat on an empty stomach for no apparent reason.

Regardless of the cause, the sequence of events is the same. Fluid moves into the stomach from the stomach wall. The dog swallows air and saliva repeatedly but is unable to burp or vomit. The stomach swells larger and larger (gastric dilation), causing great pain and blocking return of blood to the heart from the abdomen and rear limbs. By the time the bloated dog gets to the veterinary clinic it may be in shock.

The goals of treatment are to empty the stomach and to reverse or prevent shock. At the same time that the dog is being prepared for stomach tubing an intravenous catheter is placed in a vein and IV fluids and antishock medications are given rapidly. Some dogs may have to be sedated or anesthetized to pass the stomach tube.

The tube is put into the mouth and down the esophagus into the stomach. Gas, fluid, and any solid material are removed from the stomach by repeatedly washing the stomach with warm water until the stomach is empty and deflated.

About 80% of the bloat cases stomach tubing and shock therapy can treat it successfully. However, in the other 20% the tube cannot be passed into the stomach, usually because the stomach is twisted shut (volvulus), much as you can twist shut a water-filled balloon by spinning the heavy part. These cases require major surgery to untwist and empty the stomach.

Rebloating after decompression of the stomach is rare but can occur. It is often a sign of volvulus. Cardiac arrhythmia is sometimes seen during surgery or after stomach tubing and shock treatment. Animals must be watched carefully for this complication.

Because of the seriousness of the problem, the outlook for survival must always be guarded. Recovering dogs must be watched for complications and give intravenous fluids. They must get no food or water for at least 48 hours.

Preventing bloat involves changing feeding habits to reduce the chance of recurrence. Divide the daily food ration into at least 3 small portions over the course of the day. Soak dry food in water so that it is fully expanded before feeding. Don't allow the dog to eat a big meal or drink a lot of water for at least 2 hours after strenuous exercise.

Doug Ferro, DVM
Barclay Hills Animal Clinic
Oregon City, Oregon