Bloat is a serious life-threatening condition. Even though diagnosis of bloat is fairly simple, its treatment can be complicated and not always successful.
Deep chested dog such as a Labrador Retriever, Doberman, Great Dane, Bull Mastiff etc. are more prone to this problem.
Bloat is caused by too much gas or fluid in the stomach. If the stomach partially rotates it is called gastric torsion. If it fully rotates its called gastric volvolus.
FACTS:
Dogs with bloat nearly always are between four and seven years of age. Two-thirds are males.
It usually affects dogs of the larger, deeper-chested breeds and rarely occurs in small breeds.
The affected dogs exercise vigorously after eating and tend to drink water in large amounts after meals, may have a history of digestive upsets.
SIGNS OF GASTRIC DILATION
Signs are excessive salivation, extreme restlessness, attempts to vomit and defecate, abdominal pain and abdominal distention. History of the dog is important like - has it eaten recently, drunk water or been running or exercising within 2-3 hours of eating?
PREVENTION
Feed small meals throughout the day instead of one big meal. Keep the dog quiet at least one hour before and at least 2 hours after a meal. This means no running or playing. Monitor and restrict the water intake of the dog before and especially after a meal.
The dog should not drink after eating dry kibble. Try not to feed a kibble which expands greatly when wet.
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