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Canine Emesis: Causes, Evaluation, and Management

Defining Emesis in Canines

Emesis, the forceful expulsion of gastric and sometimes intestinal contents, is a common clinical sign in dogs. It should be distinguished from regurgitation, which is the passive expulsion of undigested food from the esophagus. Accurate differentiation is crucial for diagnosis.

Common Etiologies of Vomiting in Dogs

  • Dietary Indiscretion: Ingestion of spoiled food, garbage, or foreign objects.
  • Infections: Viral (e.g., parvovirus, distemper), bacterial (e.g., Salmonella, E. coli), parasitic (e.g., roundworms, hookworms).
  • Metabolic Disorders: Kidney disease, liver disease, pancreatitis, Addison's disease, diabetes mellitus.
  • Toxins: Exposure to insecticides, rodenticides, antifreeze, certain medications.
  • Gastrointestinal Obstruction: Foreign bodies, tumors, intussusception.
  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Motion Sickness: Affecting some individuals during travel.
  • Medications: Certain drugs can induce as a side effect.

Diagnostic Approach

A thorough veterinary examination is essential. Diagnostic tests may include:

  • Physical Examination: Assessing hydration status, abdominal palpation, and overall health.
  • Blood Work: Complete blood count (CBC), serum biochemistry profile to evaluate organ function and identify underlying medical conditions.
  • Fecal Examination: To detect intestinal parasites.
  • Urinalysis: To assess kidney function and screen for urinary tract infections.
  • Radiography (X-rays): To identify foreign bodies, obstructions, or masses in the abdomen.
  • Ultrasonography: Provides detailed imaging of abdominal organs.
  • Endoscopy: Allows direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Biopsies can be obtained for histopathology.

Supportive Care and Therapeutic Interventions

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Supportive care often includes:

  • Fluid Therapy: To correct dehydration caused by fluid loss.
  • Antiemetics: Medications to control nausea and prevent expulsion. Examples include maropitant, metoclopramide, and ondansetron.
  • Gastroprotectants: Medications to protect the stomach lining from damage. Examples include famotidine, ranitidine, and omeprazole.
  • Dietary Management: Offering bland, easily digestible food in small, frequent meals. Examples include boiled chicken and rice.
  • Specific Treatments: Addressing the underlying cause, such as antibiotics for bacterial infections, antiparasitics for parasitic infections, surgery for obstructions, or medication for metabolic disorders.

When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Care

Seek immediate veterinary attention if any of the following signs are present:

  • Bloody emesis (hematemesis).
  • Persistent or severe .
  • Lethargy or weakness.
  • Abdominal pain or distention.
  • Inability to keep down food or water.
  • Signs of dehydration (e.g., sunken eyes, dry gums).
  • Known or suspected toxin ingestion.