Water retention

Symptoms of water retention in dogs

The symptoms of water retention in dogs can vary depending on the part of the body affected. The most common signs are:

• Swelling of the legs, paws, belly or face
• Weight gain
• shortness of breath
• tiredness
• Loss of appetite
• Skin changes such as redness, itching or hair loss

If you notice one or more of these symptoms in your dog, you should take him to the vet as soon as possible. Water retention can be an indication of a serious condition that requires immediate treatment.

Causes of water retention in dogs

Water retention in dogs can have various causes, most of which are related to an imbalance of fluid in the body. The most common causes are:

• Heart failure: when the heart is no longer pumping enough blood around the body, fluid builds up in the vessels and leaks into the tissues.
• Renal insufficiency: If the kidneys can no longer filter enough waste products from the blood, the fluid accumulates in the body.
• Liver disease: When the liver no longer produces enough protein, the pressure in the blood vessels drops and the fluid leaks into the tissues.
• Infections: When the body fights bacteria or viruses, inflammation can occur, which increases the permeability of the vessels and the fluid leaks into the tissue.
• Injuries: When the body is injured due to an accident or surgery, swelling can occur, trapping the fluid in the tissues.
• Allergies: When the body reacts to a foreign substance, an allergic reaction can occur, causing the vessels to dilate and the fluid to spill into the tissues.

Treatment of water retention in dogs

The treatment of water retention in dogs depends on the underlying cause. The veterinarian will perform a thorough examination and may perform blood tests, x-rays or ultrasound to make the diagnosis. The possible treatment options are:

• Medication: The veterinarian may prescribe medications that promote fluid elimination (diuretics), strengthen the heart (cardiac glycosides) or inhibit inflammation (antibiotics or antihistamines).
• Dietary changes: The vet may recommend a special diet that reduces the salt content and increases the protein content in order to regulate the fluid balance.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the cause of water retention, for example to remove a tumor or correct a heart defect.

Prevention of water retention in dogs

Water retention in dogs cannot always be prevented, but you can take some steps to reduce the risk. These include:

• Regular visits to the vet: Have your dog checked regularly by the vet to detect and treat any potential conditions early.
• Healthy diet: Feed your dog a high-quality diet that meets their nutritional needs and does not contain harmful additives.
• Adequate exercise : Make sure your dog gets enough exercise to strengthen his cardiovascular system and control his weight.
• Stress reduction: Avoid situations that can stress or frighten your dog, such as loud noises, strange people or animals or changes in the environment.