Gastric torsion in dogs

In large dog breeds in particular, a so-called gastric torsion can occur under certain circumstances, in which the animal's stomach twists in such a way that both the entrance to the stomach and the exit from the stomach are closed off. This gives rise to serious and life-threatening dangers for the dog. In such a case, the dog owner should therefore consult a vet without delay.

How does gastric torsion arise?

Experts still argue to this day about the causes of gastric torsion in dogs, which primarily affects breeds such as the Great Dane, the German Shepherd and the setter. Some vets take the view that the twisting of the stomach is triggered by eating too hastily, the swallowing of air associated with this, or by overfeeding. Yet other vets regard the dog romping about directly after eating as the cause of the twisting of the stomach and the accompanying closure of the stomach entrance and exit. Even the feeding of dry food is named by some experts as a possible trigger for this dangerous twisting. Regardless of the cause, in such a case an operation must as a rule be arranged without delay, during which the surgeon returns the animal's stomach to the correct position.

What can result from gastric torsion?

The greatest danger posed by gastric torsion in dogs is circulatory shock, which can lead to the death of the animal. Because of the closure of the stomach entrance and the stomach exit, large amounts of digestive gases build up very quickly inside the stomach, causing the dog's stomach to become severely bloated. This can create strong pressure on the blood vessels of the stomach, so that it and neighbouring organs are no longer adequately supplied with blood and oxygen. If this state continues for some time, the dog's circulation sooner or later collapses and the animal can die as a result.

How can gastric torsion be recognised?

With gastric torsion, severe bloating of the stomach usually occurs around two hours after feeding, and the dog becomes ever more apathetic and also more restless as the impending circulatory shock approaches. It has also frequently been observed that dogs with a twisted stomach sit a great deal and constantly try to vomit or pass faeces, which the animal is usually unable to do because of the closed-off stomach entrance and exit. If an animal displays this behaviour, it is advisable to X-ray the dog's abdomen, as a twisted stomach can be recognised very well in this way. In the event of a positive diagnosis, the dog's circulation must be stabilised without delay and the animal, as already mentioned, immediately operated on as an emergency.