Recognize abdominal pain in dogs

The favorite treat remains untouched and playing ball is no fun today either? Stomach or abdominal pain in dogs can manifest itself in different ways. In this article, we would like to help you correctly interpret the first signs of a stomach ache, shed some light on possible causes of the pain and show you how you can best help your four-legged friend.

How do I recognise stomach ache in dogs?

As mentioned above, refusal to eat and listlessness are good signs of pain. You know your four-legged friend best. If he or she is normally a ball junkie and suddenly doesn't dignify the toy with a glance, you don't even have to ask yourself if something is wrong, then the case is obvious. However, not every dog shows pain so clearly, so sometimes you have to look a little closer:

• frequent licking of the nose or even just sticking out the tongue
• hardened abdominal wall and cramped posture
• sensitivity to touch
• vomiting or diarrhoea

These are all signs or accompanying symptoms of abdominal pain, except for the strikingly frequent licking of the nose, which generally means pain.

Where does the pain in dogs come from?

There does not always have to be a serious illness behind it immediately. Stomach pain can affect dogs of any age, but especially in puppies or retired dogs, stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhea can also be the result of stress. Other triggers include:

• an infection
• food intolerances
• worm infections
• foreign bodies in the stomach due to swallowing toy parts or other indigestible objects
• side effects of medication
• more serious illnesses such as cancer or stomach ulcers

A mild stomach upset will usually pass in an otherwise healthy pet without you needing to see a vet. Cook your pet some rice and chicken, mix in some cooked carrots and offer it to him in smaller portions throughout the day. If your dog has diarrhea, make sure he always has access to enough water to replenish lost fluids. It's best to look at the droppings as well. This may be disgusting, but can sometimes contain important clues to illness. If you discover blood, you should immediately go to the vet. It is best to take a sample of the poop with you.

Important: Blood in the faeces is not always red. Black feces can also indicate bleeding in the intestines, which took place a little earlier in the digestive tract, which is why the blood is discolored.

In the same attentive way you should look at vomit. If your dog has eaten something that does not belong in a dog's stomach, parts or even all of it may come out this way. Larger pieces of bones, parts of rubber toys or similar things are often swallowed. In this case, as with bloody or prolonged diarrhea (48 hours and liquid), off to the vet.

What can I expect at the vet when my dog has a stomach ache?

The treatment methods for stomach aches in dogs vary depending on the cause. Ultrasound examinations, X-rays or the administration of worming or painkillers for dogs. Here, as with all medications: Give the painkiller to your dog only in consultation with the vet.

Explanation: We are not doctors! Please always consult a doctor if you are not sure!