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Vomiting

A representation of Vomiting

Vomiting is a common symptom in dogs and can have many different causes. It can be harmless, but it can also indicate a serious illness. In this article, you'll find out what vomiting is, what the signs and causes are and how you can help your dog.

What is vomiting?

Vomiting is when stomach contents are regurgitated through the mouth. This causes the dog's stomach to contract and it gags or coughs. The stomach contents can consist of food residue, gastric juice or bile. Sometimes blood or foam is also present.

When does a dog vomit?

There are many situations in which a dog can vomit. Some of these are

  • Eating spoiled food
  • Eating too quickly or too hastily
  • swallowing foreign bodies
  • poisoning
  • change of food
  • Inflammation of the stomach lining
  • Stress or nervousness
  • motion sickness

These causes usually lead to spontaneous and short-lived vomiting that subsides on its own.

When is vomiting dangerous?

Vomiting can also be a sign of a serious illness that requires veterinary treatment. These include, for example

  • Kidney or liver disease
  • Gastrointestinal ulcers
  • Gastric torsion
  • Inflammation of the pancreas
  • Infections or parasites

These causes can lead to chronic or recurrent vomiting . The dog loses a lot of fluids and electrolytes and can become dehydrated.

How can I tell if my dog is sick?

If your dog is vomiting, you should look out for the following symptoms:

  • Frequency and duration of vomiting
  • Color and consistency of the vomit
  • Blood or foam in the vomit
  • Loss of appetite or increased thirst
  • Weight loss or emaciation
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Fever or pain

If one or more of these symptoms occur, the dog should be taken to the vet!

How can I help my dog?

If your dog is vomiting, you can help him as follows:

  • Don't give him any food for 12 to 24 hours.
  • Give him small amounts of water.
  • When the vomiting stops, give him easily digestible food such as boiled chicken with rice.
  • If the vomiting continues or other symptoms occur, see a vet.
  • You can also try home remedies such as chamomile tea or homeopathic remedies such as Nux vomica. They can relieve the nausea and soothe the stomach lining.

Vomiting in dogs is a common phenomenon that can have many causes. It can be harmless, but it can also indicate a serious illness. You should therefore always pay attention to your dog's signs.

The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.

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