Dog Vomiting: Guide to Causes and Treatment Protocols

· by Glendon Lloyd Dip.Canine.Nutrition Dip.Dog.Nutrigenomics

Dog Vomiting Causes Treatments and FAQ's

Causes and Treatment for Dog Throwing Up

Summary

Vomiting in dogs is a common issue that can range from a minor inconvenience to a sign of a serious underlying health condition. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for vomiting in dogs. It explains the difference between vomiting and regurgitation, lists potential causes, and offers detailed guidance on when to seek veterinary care. The article also covers specific scenarios, such as vomiting accompanied by diarrhoea, vomiting bile, or vomiting blood. Additionally, it includes a FAQ section that answers common questions dog owners may have about their vomiting pet.

Table of Contents

Vomiting in dogs is a common occurrence that can be unsettling for pet owners. While occasional vomiting might be harmless, it can also be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. This article will provide an in-depth exploration of the causes of vomiting in dogs, how to distinguish between vomiting and regurgitation, when to seek veterinary care, and the various treatment options available.

What is Vomiting?

Vomiting is a reflexive, forceful expulsion of stomach or upper intestinal contents through the mouth. It is a complex process involving multiple stages:

  • Nausea: The dog may appear restless, drool excessively, and swallow frequently.
  • Retching: The abdominal muscles contract to build pressure in the stomach.
  • Expulsion: The contents of the stomach are forcefully ejected through the oesophagus and out of the mouth.

Vomiting can serve as a protective mechanism to rid the body of harmful substances, but chronic or severe vomiting can lead to dehydration, nutrient deficiencies, and other health problems.

What is Regurgitation?

Regurgitation is the passive expulsion of undigested food from the oesophagus. Unlike vomiting, regurgitation does not involve the forceful contractions of the stomach muscles, and it typically occurs without warning. The regurgitated material often appears as undigested food, coated in saliva, and may be expelled immediately after eating or drinking.

What is the Difference Between Vomiting and Regurgitation?

Understanding the difference between vomiting and regurgitation is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment:

  • Vomiting: Involves active abdominal contractions and is often preceded by nausea. The vomit may contain partially digested food, bile, or blood, and it can be expelled hours after eating.
  • Regurgitation: Is passive, without abdominal contractions or nausea. The regurgitated material is typically undigested and expelled soon after eating.

Regurgitation usually indicates a problem with the oesophagus, such as a blockage, oesophagitis, or megaoesophagus, while vomiting can be related to a broader range of gastrointestinal, metabolic, or systemic issues.

Causes of Dogs Vomiting

Vomiting in dogs can be caused by various factors, ranging from mild to severe. Understanding these causes helps in determining the appropriate treatment.

1. Dietary Indiscretion

  • Cause: Dogs often ingest non-food items or spoiled food, leading to gastrointestinal irritation.
  • Mechanism: The stomach recognises harmful substances and expels them to prevent further digestion.

2. Gastroenteritis

  • Cause: Inflammation of the stomach and intestines due to infections (viral, bacterial, or parasitic) or toxins.
  • Mechanism: The irritation of the GI (gastrointestinal tract) lining triggers vomiting and, often, diarrhoea.

3. Pancreatitis

  • Cause: Inflammation of the pancreas, often due to a high-fat diet or obesity.
  • Mechanism: Enzymes that should be released into the intestines are activated in the pancreas, causing self-digestion and triggering nausea and vomiting.

4. Toxins

  • Cause: Ingestion of harmful substances like household chemicals, plants, or spoiled food.
  • Mechanism: The body attempts to eliminate the toxin through vomiting to prevent absorption.

5. Obstructions

  • Cause: Foreign bodies, tumours, or severe constipation can block the digestive tract.
  • Mechanism: The obstruction prevents normal passage of food, causing vomiting as the body tries to expel the blockage.

6. Infectious Diseases

  • Cause: Viral infections like parvovirus or distemper, bacterial infections like leptospirosis.
  • Mechanism: Pathogens attack the gastrointestinal tract, leading to inflammation, pain, and vomiting.

7. Chronic Conditions

  • Cause: Conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, or Addison’s disease.
  • Mechanism: Systemic conditions disrupt normal bodily functions, leading to nausea and vomiting as secondary symptoms.

8. Medications

  • Cause: Side effects of drugs like NSAIDs, antibiotics, or chemotherapy agents.
  • Mechanism: Some medications irritate the stomach lining or disrupt normal digestion, triggering vomiting.

9. Motion Sickness

  • Cause: Sensitivity to motion during car rides or travel.
  • Mechanism: The inner ear’s response to motion can cause nausea and vomiting in dogs.

10. Dietary Allergies or Intolerances

11. Heatstroke

  • Cause: Overheating due to high temperatures or excessive exercise.
  • Mechanism: The body’s attempt to cool down can lead to gastrointestinal distress and vomiting.

12. Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)

  • Cause: A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists and fills with gas.
  • Mechanism: The twisted stomach traps gas and food, leading to severe pain and retching. This is a medical emergency.

Diagnosis for Vomiting Dogs

Diagnosing the cause of vomiting is essential for effective treatment. The process can start with an at-home assessment and should be followed by a thorough veterinary examination if necessary.

At-Home Assessment

Before taking your dog to the vet, assess the situation at home:

  • Frequency and Timing: Note how often your dog vomits and whether it occurs after eating, drinking, or at random times.
  • Vomit Appearance: Examine the vomit for colour, consistency, and any unusual content like blood or foreign objects.
  • Behavioural Changes: Look for signs of lethargy, depression, or changes in appetite.
  • Hydration: Check for dehydration by gently lifting the skin on the back of your dog’s neck—if it doesn’t snap back quickly, your dog may be dehydrated.

Veterinary Diagnosis

If vomiting persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, a veterinary consultation is necessary. A vet may perform the following:

  • Physical Examination: Assess the dog’s overall condition, including abdominal palpation to check for pain or bloating.
  • Blood Work: Tests can identify infections, organ dysfunction, or electrolyte imbalances.
  • Imaging: X-rays or ultrasounds help visualise blockages, tumours, or other abnormalities in the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Endoscopy: This allows direct visualisation of the oesophagus, stomach, and intestines, and the ability to take biopsies if needed.
  • Faecal Analysis: This can detect parasites or bacterial infections that might be causing the vomiting.

When Should a Vet Be Consulted?

A vet should be consulted if:

  • Vomiting lasts more than 24 hours: Persistent vomiting can lead to dehydration and further complications.
  • There’s blood in the vomit: Vomiting blood is a sign of serious internal injury or disease.
  • The dog shows signs of severe dehydration: Dry gums, sunken eyes, and lethargy require immediate attention.
  • There’s abdominal pain or swelling: These could indicate serious conditions like pancreatitis or bloat.
  • The dog has pre-existing conditions: Dogs with known health issues like diabetes or kidney disease need prompt evaluation when vomiting occurs.

Treatment Options for Vomiting Dogs

Treatment depends on the underlying cause, the severity of symptoms, and the dog’s overall health.

Pharmacological Treatment

  • Antiemetics:
    • Maropitant (Cerenia): Widely used in the US, UK, and EU, Cerenia is effective in treating acute vomiting and motion sickness.
    • Metoclopramide (Reglan): This drug helps with nausea and also promotes gastric emptying, making it useful for dogs with delayed gastric emptying.
    • Ondansetron (Zofran): Originally developed for chemotherapy-induced nausea, Ondansetron is effective in controlling severe vomiting.
  • Proton Pump Inhibitors:
    • Omeprazole and Pantoprazole: These drugs reduce stomach acid production and are particularly useful for treating gastritis, ulcers, or reflux-related vomiting.
  • H2 Receptor Antagonists:
  • Antibiotics:
    • Metronidazole or Amoxicillin-clavulanate: If bacterial infections are suspected, these antibiotics are commonly prescribed to treat gastrointestinal infections.
  • Dewormers:
    • Fenbendazole and Pyrantel: If parasites are identified as the cause, these deworming medications can clear the infestation and stop the vomiting.

Fluid or Hydration Therapy

  • Oral Rehydration Solutions: If dehydration is mild, you can offer your dog an oral electrolyte solution designed for pets.
  • Subcutaneous Fluids: For moderate dehydration, fluids can be administered under the skin at the vet’s office.
  • Intravenous Fluids: Severe dehydration, ongoing vomiting, or inability to keep fluids down may require hospitalisation and IV fluids to restore hydration and electrolytes.

Dietary Protocols and Interventions

  • Bland Diet: Begin feeding small amounts of bland foods like boiled chicken, rice, specially formulated gastrointestinal diets (e.g., Hill’s i/d, Royal Canin Gastrointestinal) or non-prescription dog food for gastrointestinal issues like gastroenteritis and gastritis . These diets are lower in fat and easy to digest.
  • Small, Frequent Meals: Instead of large meals, offer smaller, more frequent portions to prevent overloading the stomach.
  • Gradual Diet Transition: After vomiting subsides, slowly transition back to the regular diet over a few days to avoid recurrence.
  • Herbs and Spices: Numerous herbs and spices have been clinically shown to provide support and relief for vomiting in dogs. This article, Best Herbs and Spices for Vomiting in Dogs, provides further valuable information on the topic.

Dog Vomiting and Diarrhoea

When vomiting is accompanied by diarrhoea, it usually indicates a gastrointestinal infection or irritation. Dehydration is a significant concern in these cases. Treatment often includes antiemetics, antidiarrhoeal medications, and fluid therapy. The vet may also prescribe antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected. A bland diet is essential until symptoms resolve.

Dog Vomiting Bile

Bile is a yellow-green substance produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. Dogs typically vomit bile when their stomachs are empty for too long, leading to irritation of the stomach lining. This can occur first thing in the morning or late at night. Feeding your dog smaller, more frequent meals can help prevent bile vomiting. In some cases, your vet may prescribe acid-reducing medications or a specialised diet.

Dog Vomiting White Foam

White foam vomiting usually occurs when a dog’s stomach is empty, and it often signifies minor gastrointestinal irritation or acid reflux. It may also happen if a dog ingests something that upsets their stomach, like grass. Monitoring your dog’s diet and providing a small, bland meal can help. Persistent vomiting of white foam, however, may require veterinary attention to rule out more serious conditions.

Dog Vomiting Blood

Vomiting blood, known as haematemesis, is a critical sign that warrants immediate veterinary care. The blood may appear bright red or have a coffee-ground appearance, indicating different sources of bleeding within the gastrointestinal tract. Potential causes include severe gastritis, ulcers, tumours, or ingestion of sharp objects that have damaged the stomach or intestines. Treatment will focus on stabilising the dog, stopping the bleeding, and addressing the underlying cause.

Dog Vomiting and Appears Normal

Sometimes, a dog may vomit but otherwise seems healthy and energetic. Occasional vomiting in such cases may result from minor dietary indiscretions or mild gastrointestinal upset. If your dog vomits once and then resumes normal activities, it may not be a cause for concern. However, if vomiting recurs or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s best to consult a vet to ensure there isn’t an underlying issue.

Dog Eating Grass and Vomiting

Many dogs eat grass, which can sometimes lead to vomiting. This behaviour might be instinctual, possibly to induce vomiting and clear the stomach of irritants. While occasional grass-eating followed by vomiting is typically harmless, frequent occurrences might indicate gastrointestinal discomfort or a dietary deficiency. If your dog regularly eats grass and vomits, consider discussing dietary adjustments with your vet.

FAQ’s Vomiting Dogs: Answers to Your Questions

Why is my dog vomiting and shaking?

Vomiting accompanied by shaking can be a sign of severe nausea, pain, or even anxiety. In some cases, it may indicate a more serious condition like poisoning, pancreatitis, or severe infection, requiring immediate veterinary attention.

Why is my dog vomiting and panting?

Panting along with vomiting can indicate pain, stress, or overheating. Conditions like heatstroke, severe infections, or gastrointestinal blockages can cause these symptoms. Veterinary care is necessary to determine the underlying cause.

Why is my dog vomiting white foam?

Vomiting white foam often occurs when a dog’s stomach is empty and can be a sign of acid reflux, mild gastritis, or ingestion of irritants like grass. If it happens frequently, consult a vet to rule out more serious issues.

Why is my dog’s vomit yellow?

Yellow vomit typically contains bile and can occur when a dog’s stomach is empty. It may be related to gastritis, bile reflux, or simply an empty stomach. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals can help reduce this type of vomiting.

Why is my dog vomiting their food?

Vomiting food can occur if a dog eats too quickly, consumes something that disagrees with their stomach, or has an underlying condition like oesophagitis or food intolerance. Slowing down feeding and monitoring for other symptoms can help manage this issue.

How can I treat my vomiting dog at home?

Start by withholding food for 12-24 hours to allow the stomach to settle, while providing small amounts of water. Afterward, offer a bland diet like boiled chicken and rice in small portions or easily digestible vegetables like sweet potato and pumpkin. If vomiting persists, seek veterinary care.

What should I feed my vomiting dog?

Feed your dog a bland diet such as boiled chicken and rice, easily digestible vegetables like sweet potato and pumpkin or a specialised gastrointestinal diet. Introduce food gradually, starting with small amounts and increasing as the dog tolerates it. Avoid feeding fatty or spicy foods during recovery.

Why does my dog’s vomit smell like poo?

Vomit that smells like faeces could indicate a serious condition such as an intestinal blockage, where digested material is being forced back into the stomach. This is a medical emergency, and immediate veterinary care is required.

Why is my dog vomiting after deworming?

Some dogs may vomit after deworming due to irritation from the medication. This is usually mild and temporary. However, if vomiting is severe or persistent, contact your vet to discuss alternative treatment options.

Conclusion

Vomiting in dogs can range from a minor issue to a sign of a serious health problem. Understanding the causes, recognising when to seek veterinary help, and knowing the available treatment options can make a significant difference in your dog’s health. If your dog experiences frequent or severe vomiting, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

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Best Foods for Dogs with Diarrhoea, Vomiting and Improved Gut Health

About Glendon Lloyd Dip.Canine.Nutrition Dip.Dog.Nutrigenomics

I have had dogs from the day I was born. Much to my Mum's amusement, my Dad bought home Zetta, a beautiful corgi puppy , as his contribution to our new family!

Fast forward to 2018 and Catherine, my wife, and one of our dogs Poppy, were both diagnosed and treated for cancer within months of each other

Diet and its impact on health, cancer particularly, led me down a rabbit hole of discovery.

I consumed information voraciously - on our diets, our dogs' diets and the impact these have not just on health but also the health of our increasingly fragile planet.

I was humbled by the time and expertise given so freely by doctors and vets, canine nutritionists and scientists, academics and agronomists. The more I learned the more I understood there had to be a better way to improve not just our health but also our dogs and the planet's.

The result of my trip down that rabbit hole is Bonza, a plant-based dog food (and now supplements) that elevate our dogs' diet beyond simple nutrition to a diet that inspires a healthier everyday life for our dogs and the planet.

I am continually researching the nutritional impact our dogs' diets have on their health and wellbeing and the ingredients and nutrients we should include in, and exclude from, their food to deliver longer, healthier lives.

I am delighted that my trip down the rabbit hole has led to me completing a Diploma in Canine Nutrigenomics and a Diploma in Canine Nutrition being awarded a Distinction for both my coursework and theses!

ADD LIFE TO YOUR DOG'S YEARS

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