Ever asked yourself, ‘’why do dogs throw up?’’ There are some reasons why dogs throw up. Some of which could be as a result of gastroenteritis disorder. This is basically an inflammation of the stomach and intestinal tracts disease.
Also, your furry friend could throw up due to overeating, toxins, motion sickness and changes in diet. They are known to get sick when its stomach is empty as bile can be irritating. This is known as bilious vomiting syndrome. Dogs will also vomit when they ingest foreign objects like stuffed toys, bones, coins, or even grass.
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When It Is Sudden, Persistent And There Is Blood In The Stool
This already tells you all is not well. When a dog ingests foreign objects like harmful drugs and swallows large bone, it suddenly begins to vomit.
And when the vomiting persists, it could lead to dehydration because he loses electrolytes. And if there is blood in the vomit, this is an excellent reason to go to the vet. The vet will check him and remove the foreign object or objects because it might be life-threatening.
When The Cause Is An Infection
You may notice that your dog starts to lose weight because of the vomiting bouts. He may also become weak and unable to stand on his own without being supported. When this happens, you need to get him to your local vet FAST! Especially if you just got him and are yet to vaccinate him.
New dogs that have not been vaccinated are susceptible to Canine Parvovirus infection. This is a severe disease that can lead to death. Throwing up could also be due to other viral infections like anorexia and intestinal worms. Reactions to medication is another cause of vomiting in dogs.
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What If Vomit Is Green Or Greenish In Color (Toxicities)?
Antifreeze Poisoning is a common occurrence in many homes. This kind of poisoning happens when antifreeze drips on the floor from the radiator of a car, and the dog licks it off the floor. Also, it could be due to lying around the house with the lid not correctly screwed on tightening. What’s common between these two scenarios? The dog finds it, takes a lick or even drinks it.
When the vomit is bright green or greenish in color, and there is no sign of grass in it, you could be looking at toxic poisoning.
The following are some more accompanying signs;
- Drunken behavior
- Weakness
- Diarrhea
- Seizures ( as a result of exposure to toxins)
- Frequent urination
- Delirium
- Fainting
- Dizziness
Additionally, the following toxic substances, if ingested by your dog can also cause him to throw up.
- Mouse and rat poison
- Xylitol ( found in sugarless gums and sugarless candles)
- Insecticides
- Grapes
Know that poison is the one responsible for the greenish color you see in the vomit. When you spot such coloration, you should act fast as this could be deadly. Also ingesting poisonous plants like mushrooms amongst others, decayed or decaying foods is a cause for worry.
Gastrointestinal Disorders
There are different types of gastrointestinal problems. Some of the known disorders include; acute gastroenteritis which affects the stomach and intestines. There is also colitis which affects the membrane lining the colon. It is caused by whipworms as well as tumors or polyps. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, which is an elongated and tapered gland that’s found behind the stomach.
When a dog eats food that is very rich in fat or, regularly feeds on rich table food, he could result in frequent vomiting. Any form of tumor in a dog’s stomach is most definitely associated with vomiting.
This should be a cause of worry. Dogs will not be able to hold down any food if they have a tumor in the stomach. This is because we associate tumors with intense pain and discomfort. To eliminate vomiting, you should take care of the type of food a dog eats.
When To Consider Vomiting A Normal Occurrence And Not Fret
When The Vomit Is Yellow Foam
Some could indicate an empty stomach, especially when you notice this yellow foam in the mornings. Your dog is just showing signs of bilious vomiting syndrome. This is often as a result of digestive fluid produced in the liver and stored in the gallbladder. When the liquid is released into the small intestines, the dog could vomit. Bile on an empty stomach can be irritating and hence the yellow substance you see in the vomit.
However, you can relax and consider it normal when you know your dog is healthy. How do you know your dog is healthy? When he eats and poos normally. However, this can be checked by feeding him small portions of food at night. Also when you notice grass in the vomit, you have found the culprit. So, do not let him play in the grass.
Overeating/ Eating From The Table
Eating from the table especially fatty foods like turkey, fatty beef, pork, etc. could trigger vomiting. Eating or drinking too quickly also triggers vomiting, which is not considered severe and hence not a thing to worry about.
Dogs at times tend to overeat, and too much food in the stomach at a time directly causes vomiting. Similarly, too much time in-between miles can cause vomiting. You can eliminate vomiting by regulating the quantity and quality of food it takes.
Change In Diet Or Food/ Food Allergies
It is normal and not something to worry about when there is a change in diet or food supplement, and vomiting occurs.
Your dog might just be reacting to the change. Take note of the food or supplement it reacted to. Change it to a more tolerable one, if the vomiting does not subside after some time.
Gastrointestinal Foreign Bodies
Dogs are fond of playing with stuffed animals. You may notice that particular cute stuffed animals he is fond of playing with have suddenly gone missing. You may also notice rocks in the house and socks that are no longer in pairs. Even worse, some of your undergarments could be missing some parts.
When chewing activities on the couch crown all these, then expect him to vomit big time. Dogs like to chew on objects that are obviously not food. This will cause irritation in their stomach, which induces vomiting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a dog may give a yellow vomit due to eating grass or any other foreign object that is not considered deadly. Antifreeze poisoning or any other forms of stomach infection will also cause him to throw up. In more cases than not, it is a normal part of their physiological system.
However, it is advisable to book an appointment with your vet to ascertain the seriousness of the condition, especially when it’s persistent.