Bloating occurs when excess gas or fluid is in the abdomen, causing a distended or “pot belly” look to your pet’s stomach.
Bloating can be caused by many different things, some of which are serious emergencies that should be treated immediately.
What To Look For:
- Swelling in the abdomen – bloated, “pot belly” appearance
- Unable to get comfortable – pacing, panting, not wanting to lay down, restlessness
- Trying to throw up or gagging without producing any vomit
- Pale gums, tongue, and skin
- Drooling or foaming of the mouth (if combined with any of the above symptoms)
One specific illness that is a true medical emergency is Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV), which is often referred to as just “Bloat.” Bloat/GDV occurs when the stomach flips and cuts off the circulation to itself and nearby organs, which can rapidly lead to shock and death if not treated immediately. It most commonly occurs in large dogs.