“Why does my dog have a swollen stomach yet has no pain?” – This is a common question among pet parents. Ignoring this could allow potentially life-threatening conditions to progress undetected, compromising your pet’s health. This guide aims to help pet parents spot signs of this deceptive condition to provide early intervention and veterinary treatment for their dogs.
Why Does My Dog Have a Swollen Stomach Yet Has No Pain?
A dog’s swollen stomach without pain can come from medical conditions, including gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat) or a cavity infection called peritonitis. A hormonal disorder known as Cushing’s syndrome and abnormal fluid retention (ascites) can also result in a swollen abdomen in dogs. Abdominal injuries may lead to internal bleeding, causing the belly to swell.
Have you noticed swelling or bloating in your dog’s stomach? A swollen abdomen can be a lethal emergency. Our veterinary staff treats various types of abdominal swelling in pets, including cases where pain may not be apparent.
Common Causes of Stomach Swelling in Dogs
Listed below are the high-risk causes of a swollen belly in dogs. Observe these signs as these can help determine if you need to take your dog to the vet.
1. Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus or Bloat
One of the biggest emergencies for dogs is gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV), where a dog’s bloated belly rotates with gas trapped inside and loses blood flow. A twisted stomach can lead to death in a few hours if not treated immediately. Common causes are:
- Eating large meals quickly, then exercising hard
- Family history of bloat
- Deep-chested dogs, like Great Danes and Weimaraners, are more vulnerable to this
2. Peritonitis
Peritonitis is an inflammation of the abdominal lining. Your dog might appear reluctant to move, throw up or vomit, or appear lethargic. The condition often comes from:
- Puncture of the digestive tract
- Ruptured bladder or gallbladder
- Bacterial infection
3. Cushing’s Syndrome
As a hormonal disorder, Cushing’s syndrome comes from excessive cortisol production, which can cause a pot-bellied appearance and abdominal swelling. This condition can lead to various health issues including muscle weakness, hair loss, and infections. This syndrome can be a result of:
- Pituitary gland overproducing hormones
- Adrenal gland tumor
- Long-term use of steroid medications
4. Ascites
Ascites refers to a fluid build-up in the abdominal cavity, causing noticeable swelling and distension of the abdomen. This condition can lead to discomfort, breathing difficulties, and decreased appetite in an affected dog. It can happen due to:
- Liver disease
- Heart failure
- Kidney disease
5. Abdominal Injury
Abdominal injuries can result in swelling due to internal bleeding, organ damage, or inflammation in the abdominal area. These injuries can cause pain, shock, and complications. Injuries may come from:
- Blunt force trauma
- Puncture wounds
- Falls from heights
Treatment for Swollen Abdomen-Related Issues
Schedule an appointment with your chosen vet. Our experienced veterinary team uses advanced diagnostic tools and techniques to identify the underlying causes of a dog’s swollen stomach, even in the absence of pain.
- GDV: Treating bloat in dogs requires decompressing the belly to relieve excess gas and managing shock. We can perform surgery after stabilizing your dog’s heart rate.
- Peritonitis: Emergency veterinary treatment of peritonitis includes IV therapy, antibiotics, medication, and surgery to repair ruptures and remove infected fluids.
- Cushing’s Syndrome: Treatment for Cushing’s syndrome typically involves long-term medication to regulate hormone levels or surgical removal of the tumor.
- Ascites: Ascites require immediate attention by addressing the underlying cause, draining the excess fluid, and potentially prescribing diuretics.
- Abdominal injuries: Treatment for abdominal injuries may involve emergency surgery to repair internal damage, control bleeding, or remove foreign objects.
Tips for Preventing Stomach Problems in Dogs
Being vigilant about your dog’s swollen stomach and acting quickly can lead to better outcomes. However, you can avoid these potentially life-threatening situations with proper care.
GDV
To prevent GDV, especially in deep-chested breeds, avoid feeding dry food exclusively and instead feed at least two meals a day of wet food. Don’t allow heavy exercise immediately after a big meal, and consider using slow-feed bowls to reduce the risk of bloat.
Peritonitis
You can prevent peritonitis by making sure your dog doesn’t consume sharp objects or bones that could puncture the digestive tract. Take them for regular vet check-ups, so your vet can help detect and treat conditions like ulcers or tumors before they lead to peritonitis.
Cushing’s Disease
Maintaining a healthy weight and providing regular exercise can help support a dog’s endocrine health. Regular veterinary check-ups, especially for older dogs, can aid in early detection and management of hormonal imbalances.
Ascites
To prevent ascites, focus on setting a balanced diet, regular exercise, and weight management. Take your dog to the vet to detect and manage underlying conditions like heart or liver problems that may lead to ascites.
Abdominal Injuries
Save your pet from abdominal injuries by keeping their surroundings safe and free from sharp objects and hazards. Supervise your dog during play and use appropriate restraints during car travel to minimize the risk of trauma in case of accidents.
Related Questions
What Are the Signs of Bloating in Pets?
The following symptoms may indicate bloating in pets: A swollen belly that feels hard and has an unusual shape, often due to food or gas. Other signs include restlessness, unsuccessful attempts to vomit, excessive drooling, and difficulty breathing.
Why Is My Dog Bloated Yet Acting Fine?
A dog’s bloated appearance despite normal behavior can be deceptive, as some serious conditions may not immediately cause visible distress. This situation requires prompt veterinary attention to rule out issues, even if your dog seems fine.
What Can You Do for a Dog With a Swollen Stomach?
When your dog has a swollen stomach, the most important action is to seek immediate veterinary care, as some causes can be fatal if left untreated. Keep your dog calm and avoid offering food or water, as these could potentially worsen certain conditions.
Can Dogs Get Bloated Without It Being Serious?
A dog can experience minor bloating that isn’t serious, such as from overeating or gas, which may give them a temporarily pot-bellied appearance. You can bring your dog to our clinic for regular check-ups, as a bloated belly can sometimes be an early sign of more serious conditions.
Conclusion
Understanding the potential causes and implications of a dog’s swollen stomach, even when there’s no apparent pain, can be life-saving for your furry companion. Are you worried that your dog might be suffering from abdominal swelling? Schedule an appointment at Care Animal Hospital in Temecula today by calling us at 951-676-4690.