Let's Talk About Bloat

Let us talk about bloat, (as the general public refers to it). Actually, let us talk about gastric dilatation with volvulus also known as gastric torsion. These are conditions that affect dogs primarily of the larger and deep chested breeds like the Great Dane.

The two conditions are not synonymous, however torsion/volvulus is usually preceded by bloat. Simple distension of the stomach with food, water, air or some combination, while uncomfortable, is not generally a life-threatening condition. Perhaps you have felt this recently with the holiday feasts we indulge in. Volvulus/torsion on the other hand is very serious and frequently leads to fatality if not treated rapidly and aggressively. The latter condition occurs when the full stomach has rotated within the abdomen in such a way that both ends of the stomach are effectively closed off not permitting much of anything to get in or out of the stomach. In addition to the stomach twisting, the vessels that provide blood to, and take blood away from the stomach are also compromised. The cascade of events that takes place both locally at the stomach as well as hemodynamically to the whole body results in pain, depression, shock, collapse and death if not treated.

While this is a simplistic look at the condition, what I want to make people aware of is that there is a simple and effective means of preventing it from happening. We can feed the right foods, in the right amounts and frequency, control post eating activity, etc. but that does not always insure that torsion will never occur. Owners of at risk breeds can have a procedure called a gastropexy performed that very effectively reduces the chances of torsion from occurring. It does not stop bloating from occurring if the pet over eats, or drinks but as I said above bloat is not typically a huge problem unless it is followed by torsion. The key is knowing the difference and that requires examination and radiographs. Any acutely bloated dog should be seen as soon as possible to determine which problem is present.

Here at Pine Bluff Animal Hospital, we perform what is called a laparoscopic assisted gastropexy, LAG for short. This is a minimally invasive procedure that effectively anchors the wall of the stomach to the wall of the body cavity thus preventing the twisting and rotating. Complications are rare and to date, after over 800 LAGS performed there have been no occurrences of torsion. The vast majority of dogs we have done have been Great Danes thanks to working with 2 prominent Great Dane rescue organizations as well as a number of breeders/handlers of show dogs. Torsion does not affect every Great Dane or deep chested dog, but when it does, it is an acute life-threatening condition that if not caught in time usually results in death.

Winter and Fleas

Think the flea threat is over with cold weather approaching –- think again!

With winter coming and colder temperatures with it, many fleas will die off. Once temperatures drop below 37 degrees Fahrenheit fleas start to freeze, but it can take up to 10 consecutive days of temperatures below 37 degree before fleas outside die. If day time temperatures exceed 37 degrees the fleas can survive and remain active.

Fleas are crafty and often find ways to survive the cold. The body heat of outside animals provide a safe haven for fleas even in the coldest weather. Micro-environments is another way fleas survive the winter. Outside animals often seek warmth up near foundations, under porches and in mulch beds. In these areas the temperature may not drop below 37 degrees and the fleas remain active. If your curious pet explored these areas, they may be the next hot meal for the fleas and can transport them into your home, only to thrive in the warm environment. Form theses areas fleas may find their way into your home through cracks in the foundation or other small openings.

So with cold weather the flea risk may diminish but it is not gone. To prevent flea infestation in your home we recommend using flea control products like Frontline Plus, Revolution or NexGard all year long.

Holiday Floral Threats

During the holidays, many homes may be decorated with traditional greenery – poinsettia, holly, mistletoe and lilies – which present potential toxic encounters for household pets. If these plants are part of your holiday tradition, limiting your pets' exposure is key.

Poinsettias, a common Christmas plant, only represent a mild concern with self-limiting signs. The white sap in the plant contains chemicals that if exposed to or ingested, may lead to skin irritation, drooling, vomiting or rarely diarrhea. These signs, when noted in dogs and cats, usually resolve without a need for medical intervention.

Mistletoe may be found in American (Phoradendron sertinum) and European (Viscum album) varieties, the American variety being less toxic – the berries contain various toxins and, if ingested in small quantities or accidentally, present similar signs to Poinsettia – drooling, vomiting and diarrhea. However, IF ingested in large amounts, more serious signs such as abnormal heart rate, hypotension, seizures and death have been reported.

Holly, with its spiny leaves and berries, may also cause mild digestive distress in dogs and cats. The leave, with the spines, can cause mechanical injuries on sensitive oral membranes, and berries contain several toxic substances that may lead to head shaking, vomiting, drooling and diarrhea.

Depending on the plant species, lilies represent a mild threat to a severe one to cats. Less toxic species such as Peace, Peruvian and Calla Lilies may cause only short-term signs of foaming at the mouth, drooling and vomiting. Of greater concern are true lilies of Lilium or Hemerocallis species, such as Day, Tiger, Easter, Red and Western Lilies. Even small amounts ingested of a few petals or even vase water may result in acute kidney failure. If your cat is seen eating any part of a lily, immediate veterinary attention is indicated. Decontamination via induced vomiting, intravenous fluid therapy and kidney function tests may all be indicated.

If there are any suspected toxic exposures to any of the plants discussed, call our offices for recommendations. Remember, preventing contact with and keeping these decorative plants out of reach helps ensure a peaceful holiday for all.