Introduction

Bloat, which is a medical condition called gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV), is an extremely serious condition that can occur in any dog but is most common in older large and giant breed dogs with narrow, deep chests. It is not difficult for a skilled veterinarian to diagnose bloat (and/or torsion, a common accompanying condition where the stomach twists on its axis, blocking the entry or exit of accumulating gas).

How Bloat is Diagnosed

A diagnosis of bloat is made based on several factors. The breed and history will often provide a strong suspicion of bloat, if the patient is a large, deep-chested dog over 2 years of age with sudden onset of a distended belly and signs of abdominal pain. The physical exam will also often reveal the telltale signs of an enlarged abdomen, with severe abdominal pain and usually excessive salivation (“frothing at the mouth”).

The onset of shock is diagnosed by the presence of pale mucous membranes with poor capillary refill time (normally assessed by looking at the dog’s gums, touching them firmly with a finger and assessing how long it takes for them to go from white-ish back to pink), increased heart rate, and poor pulse quality. Radiographs (commonly called X-rays), are usually taken after the dog’s stomach is decompressed via a tube inserted through the mouth down into the stomach, and/or by a needle inserted into the stomach through the abdominal wall, to release the abnormal gas build-up if at all possible. If the dog is bloating, the radiographs will show a stomach distended with gas. The pylorus, which is the opening between the stomach and the intestines through which food passes for digestion, will be displaced if the dog has a twisted, or torsed, stomach. This is clinically referred to as a “double bubble” sign on abdominal films and is diagnostic for gastric dilatation and volvulus. Only a veterinarian can confirm a diagnosis of bloat. Again, bloat is an extreme medical emergency, and it is not something to be addressed by the internet or in-home treatments.

Special Notes

Owners of large or giant breed, deep-chested dogs should be keenly aware of the symptoms of bloat. This is a life-threatening condition that can occur at any time or under any circumstances. It is very treatable if caught early.