If your dog is vomiting, has a loss of appetite, or seems lethargic, they may be suffering from gastritis—a common condition that causes stomach inflammation. While mild cases often resolve on their own, chronic or severe gastritis requires veterinary attention. Here’s what every dog owner should know about gastritis in dogs, including symptoms, causes, and treatments.
What Is Gastritis?
Gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach lining, leading to vomiting, discomfort, and digestive issues. It can be:
- Acute Gastritis – A sudden, short-term inflammation caused by dietary indiscretion or infections.
- Chronic Gastritis – Long-term stomach irritation that may be linked to underlying health conditions.
Common Causes of Gastritis in Dogs
🍗 Eating Something Bad – Dogs love to scavenge, but consuming spoiled food, trash, or non-food items can irritate the stomach.
🦠 Bacterial or Viral Infections – Certain infections, like Helicobacter bacteria, can cause gastritis.
💊 Medications – Prolonged use of NSAIDs (like aspirin or ibuprofen) can damage the stomach lining.
🌱 Toxic Substances – Ingesting household chemicals, plants, or human medications can trigger inflammation.
🐶 Food Allergies or Sensitivities – Some dogs develop gastritis due to dietary intolerances.
🦴 Foreign Objects – Swallowing bones, toys, or fabric can irritate or block the digestive tract.
🦟 Parasites – Roundworms, hookworms, or giardia may contribute to chronic gastritis.
Symptoms of Gastritis in Dogs
- Frequent vomiting (sometimes with bile or blood)
- Loss of appetite or refusal to eat
- Lethargy or unusual tiredness
- Abdominal pain (dog may hunch or whimper)
- Diarrhea or black, tarry stools
- Dehydration (due to excessive vomiting)
- Excessive drooling or lip-smacking (a sign of nausea)
If vomiting persists for more than 24 hours or contains blood, seek veterinary care immediately.
Diagnosing Gastritis in Dogs
A veterinarian may perform:
🩺 Physical Examination – Checking for pain, bloating, or dehydration.
🩸 Blood Tests – To assess organ function and rule out infections.
📸 X-rays or Ultrasound – To detect foreign objects, tumors, or inflammation.
🔬 Fecal Tests – To check for parasites.
Treatment Options for Gastritis
💧 Fasting & Hydration – Vets often recommend 12-24 hours of fasting to rest the stomach, followed by a bland diet (boiled chicken and rice).
💊 Medications – Anti-nausea drugs (cerenia), stomach protectants (sucralfate), and antacids (famotidine, omeprazole) can help soothe irritation.
🥩 Dietary Management – Switching to hypoallergenic or easily digestible food can prevent recurring issues.
🦠 Probiotics – Adding good bacteria to the gut can support digestion.
🚫 Identifying Triggers – If a specific food or medication is causing gastritis, it must be removed from the dog’s routine.
Most mild cases improve within 48 hours, but chronic gastritis may require long-term dietary and medical management.
Preventing Gastritis in Dogs
✅ Avoid Feeding Table Scraps – Some human foods can upset the stomach or be toxic.
✅ Supervise Your Dog Outdoors – Prevent them from eating garbage, spoiled food, or foreign objects.
✅ Use Pet-Safe Medications – Only give vet-approved drugs to avoid stomach irritation.
✅ Provide a Consistent Diet – Sudden food changes can trigger gastritis.
✅ Keep Toxic Substances Out of Reach – Ensure household cleaners, plants, and chemicals are safely stored.
When to See a Vet
🚨 If your dog experiences persistent vomiting, severe dehydration, bloody stools, or extreme lethargy, consult a vet immediately.
Final Thoughts
Gastritis in dogs is common but manageable with the right treatment. Identifying the cause, providing supportive care, and making dietary adjustments can help your dog recover quickly and prevent future episodes.
