Is Dog Stomach Swollen On Right Side Serious?

When there is a dog stomach swollen on right side, it’s critical to figure out what’s causing it quickly.

An enlarged stomach in dogs may be a dangerous and sometimes fatal condition.

This article will discuss various reasons, such as ascites, gastric dilatation, and others. I will also go through the signs and therapies for an enlarged stomach in dogs.

You may help your dog’s health by learning the indications and quick vet treatment.

What Is Enlarged Stomach Dogs?

dog stomach swollen on right side

Dog stomach swollen on right side refers to a larger-than-normal belly. It can result from various factors.

An enlarged stomach may be because of a minor issue like weight gain or pregnancy. However, it could also suggest a dangerous condition known as Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV).

GDV, or bloat, happens when your pet’s stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid and twists. Simple bloating without twisting may occur and resolve on its own.

Having said that,  it may become fatal, depending on the duration and intensity. If you observe any indications of bloat, get veterinarian assistance quickly.

Why Is My Dog Stomach Swollen On Right Side?

Dogs’ swollen stomachs are due to various reasons, including bloat or other issues.

If you notice any signs of a swollen abdomen in your dog, it’s crucial to seek veterinary attention. They will determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.

Ascites 

In dogs, ascites are a usual reason for dogs’ stomach enlargement. It happens when there is a fluid build-up in the abdomen, causing the belly to swell.

Ascites can result from various underlying medical conditions. It may be renal, heart, liver disease, or intestinal problems.

You must seek a vet if additional symptoms like noises or pain follow the enlarged stomach. Diagnostic tests can be performed to discover the root of ascites.

Cushing’s Syndrome

Cushing’s syndrome can also induce stomach bloating in dogs. It is a hormonal imbalance. This condition causes an enlarged abdomen, thirst, increased appetite, and urine.

Excessive panting and hair loss are further signs of Cushing disease in dogs.

This syndrome is caused by a tumor of the adrenal. It can also be because of excess hormone production in the pituitary gland.

Emergency surgery to eliminate the tumor is compulsory for treatment.

Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus

GDV, or gastric dilatation and volvulus, is a serious and sometimes fatal condition. GDV happens when the dog’s bloated stomach is twisted.

The organ will accumulate gas and cut off the stomach’s blood supply.

This circumstance is terribly unpleasant. It may cause harm or even death to your dog in a matter of hours.

While there is no clear explanation, it is often related to heavy exercise following a meal.

Your veterinarian will administer proper care, which may entail stomach untwisting surgery. Early detection is crucial to increasing the likelihood of a good result.

Peritonitis

Peritonitis is a serious condition in canines that results in stomach enlargement. It happens when the dog’s intestines or stomach ruptures.

Tumors, ulcers, or bone splinters frequently cause this puncture.

A ruptured gallbladder or urinary bladder may also cause peritonitis. It is a very painful condition, and your dog might be unable to move or display indications of bloat.

The perforation must be repaired, infectious fluids removed, and the abdomen flushed. The more quickly your dogs get care, the higher their chances of recovery.

Take your dog to the doctor right away if you see any indications of stomach enlargement.

Injury 

Injuries, even ones that do not directly impact the tummy, can cause swelling in puppies. Abdominal swelling caused by trauma tends to form in the lowest location, the belly.

Once your dog gets hit by a car or experiences any other injury, you may notice that its tummy is enlarged.

Swelling might suggest serious internal bleeding that needs immediate medical intervention.

Other Causes Of Swollen Abdomen Dogs

There are several other reasons why dogs may experience a swollen stomach. Blood loss due to hemorrhage can also lead to abdominal swelling.

Overeating or eating too quickly can cause a dog’s stomach to bloat.

Parasites, such as worms, can cause a dog’s gut to become inflamed. Parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms can consume the nutrients.

This malnutrition can cause a dog’s body to hold onto fluids. Thus, the accumulation will eventually lead to bloating and abdominal distension.

Abdominal organs, due to diseases like uterine infection, tumors, and cysts, can also cause abdomen swelling.

Finally, pregnancy-related conditions like pyometra or a swollen uterus can cause enlargement conditions.

If you notice any signs of stomach swelling below, seek vet attention immediately. They will determine the underlying cause and provide emergency treatment.

Remember that the later you find the cause, the less likely your dog will survive.

What Are The Symptoms Of Dog’s Stomach Swollen On Right Side? 

swollen abdomen dogs

It is serious when it comes to bloating conditions on either the right or left side. Dog bloat or gastric dilatation and volvulus produce various symptoms that swiftly increase.

Even bloating without a twisted stomach can become deadly at any time. Here are some signs you can notice.

Your dog might seem restless, slobber overly, and have a distended stomach. The pet looks worried, paces, and wants to vomit, but nothing comes up in the beginning phases.

They may also extend with their front half down and back half up to relieve soreness.

Your dog could collapse. The pets will have a fast pulse, pale gums, and shortness of breath. Certainly, they will become fragile as the illness worsens.

If you observe any of these signs, get veterinarian care immediately since GDV can be fatal. The sooner the dog receives therapy, the higher his prospects of recovery.

What Should We Do For Our Enlarged Abdomen Dog?

Once your dog shows any of the above symptoms of bloat, it is still better to take him to a vet for a thorough inspection.

Meanwhile, Avoiding dog bloat in advance is an essential issue for pet owners to know about.

Regular vet visits for a checkup can help prevent gastrointestinal problems. Your doctor may track your pet’s organs over time.

You may also do a fast belly inspection at home. Look for indicators of gastrointestinal issues such as discomfort, lumps, and swelling.

Avoid using higher food bowls unless your vet recommends it to reduce the risk of bloat. Don’t allow your dog to run or exercise too much after or before meals.

Giving your dog sufficient meals during the day and ensuring they drink enough water will also help.

Your vet may consider stomach tacking before neutering to prevent it from twisting. It is critical to seek professional vet treatment since this condition is no joke.

What Are Dog Extended Stomach Treatments?

distended abdomen dogs

Dog bloat, called gastric dilation-volvulus (GDV), is an emergency medical condition. The course of action is determined by the seriousness.

The vet may first try to alleviate pressure in the pet’s distended abdomen by inserting a tube through the neck.

Sometimes, they may even insert a hollow needle into the stomach to discharge the trapped gas. When the stomach twists, it will require immediate untwisting surgery.

The doctor will also repair the stomach during this procedure to avoid future GDV. In addition, the doctor will conduct X-rays to search for internal organ damage.

If you believe your dog has swollen belly, promptly get a vet’s attention since fast treatment can save his life.

Conclusion

Dog stomach swollen on right side can be a concerning symptom. It requires prompt veterinary attention. Several reasons can lead to a dog’s stomach being enlarged.

It could include ascites, Cushing’s syndrome, gastric dilation, and volvulus.

Treatment options for an enlarged stomach in dogs vary depending on the underlying cause. It may include medication, preventative surgery, or other interventions.

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Hi I am Mitchell. Dog Growth is a blog about dog caring and training where I share my experiences to my community. Hope you enjoy it!

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