A dropsy, or more correctly - ascites, in dogs is a pathological condition, when an abnormal quantity accumulates in the abdominal cavity of the animal. This fluid affects the functions of all organs and systems in the body. The dog suffers from shortness of breath, weakness, loss of appetite and weight.
In the absence of proper treatment, the condition can lead to death. At the same time, self-medication is highly undesirable, it is better to seek qualified help from specialists.
Dropsy in Dogs - Causes
Since ascites is not a disease, but a consequence of an illness, there may be several reasons for its occurrence:
- Oncology - in this case, tumors provoke disturbance of lymphatic outflow and other painful processes, which leads to accumulation of fluid in the peritoneum;
- diseases of the liver, heart, kidneys, lungs;
- peritonitis - inflammation of the peritoneum;
- violation of water-salt balance and protein metabolism.
Dropsy in dogs - symptoms
Depending on the severity and amount of fluid, the symptoms can be as follows:
- large, swollen abdomen;
- labored breathing;
- lazy change of body position;
- thirst and frequent urination;
- muscular atrophy, general weakness, exhaustion, apathy;
- vomiting ;
- hydrothorax (effusion into the pleural cavity).
A dropsy in a dog - what to do?
At the reception of a veterinarian, your pet will conduct a comprehensive study to find the cause of the condition. During the diagnosis of the underlying disease, which may take a long time, symptomatic maintenance therapy is already underway to alleviate the condition and support the pet.
Caring for a dog with dropsy consists in exact observance of all recommendations of the doctor. Most likely, she will be given cardio- and hepaprotectors to maintain cardiac muscle and liver functions, and also prescribe diuretics and prescribe a salt-free diet.