Gastritis in Dogs: Causes and Prevention

Dog Breeds

Introduction

Although there are several causes of gastritis in dogs, the most common cause is from eating indigestible things. The best way to prevent gastritis in dogs is to avoid letting them eat inappropriate things.

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Causes of Gastritis in Dogs

Acute Gastritis

Acute gastritis (which is a sudden onset of conditions associated with disruption of the stomach lining) is most commonly associated with food poisoning, overeating, eating “the wrong thing” or some sort of bacterial or viral infection of the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. It commonly occurs when dogs eat out of the garbage, or have other dietary indiscretions such as eating foods they do not normally eat, or ingesting rotten or spoiled meat. Dogs are more commonly affected than are cats, because of dogs’ less discriminating eating habits. Irritating drugs, such as “NSAIDS” (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can also cause acute onset of gastritis. Acute gastritis almost always involves intense abdominal pain. The symptoms are usually severe, even though they may be of short duration.

Chronic Gastritis

Chronic gastritis refers to a disruption of the normal flora of the stomach that occurs over a prolonged period of time. It is often associated with a bacterial or viral infection. Bacteria from the Helicobacter genus are frequently associated with chronic gastritis in dogs. Dietary issues and certain medications (especially NSAIDS, such as aspirin) also can contribute to chronic gastritis.

Toxic Gastritis

Toxic gastritis is caused by ingestion of a corrosive substance, such as a strong acid or another poison. The dog will experience strong, cramping stomach pain, frequently followed by vomiting and/or diarrhea.

Other Causes of Gastritis

Gastritis can occur in dogs that have eaten undigestible materials such as plastic or string. If these objects “sit” in the stomach without being passed through the gastrointestinal tract, they can cause severe irritation of the lining of the stomach, with associated inflammation and discomfort. Other conditions can also cause gastritis. For example, parvovirus is well known to cause severe and acute gastritis, and dogs with mast cell tumors or kidney disease may also suffer from gastritis.

Prevention of Gastritis

The best way to prevent gastritis is to keep dogs away from garbage and other inappropriate, indigestible but potentially edible things. Appropriate vaccination of puppies, and booster vaccinations of adult dogs, can also help to prevent infectious causes of gastritis.

Special Notes

Gastritis is always an uncomfortable condition, but it typically is not life-threatening. Most dogs respond well to treatment, and the majority of cases of gastritis can be treated and well-managed at home.

Symptoms and Types