Flatulence is not uncommon in dogs or humans; in fact, it is healthy. Getting rid of unwanted gas relieves the digestive tract of pressure and other complications like bloating. Excess gas can be a source of torment for dogs as it is accompanied by stomach pain and an odor that can clear mice from a building. The last thing you want in your hands is a bloated dog because things may go downhill faster than you expect.
Over the past few days, your dog has been suffering from gas pain, and you are wondering what you can do. Luckily, dealing with gas pain does not require any surgery, but preventative measures are essential. Below you will find out some of the reasons causing gas in dogs, what to do about the matter, and some of the steps you can take to prevent it. Shall we begin?
Causes of Gas in Dogs
You might be aware of some reasons behind the production of excessive gas in dogs, but do you know the real reason why your dog is getting affected? If not, read the information below and find out which cause has the closest possibility.
- Ingesting Gassy Foods
While producing gas during digestion is normal, some foods exacerbate the situation. Dog food that features soya, beans, cabbage, milk products, and spicy foods are prime suspects in what causes excess gas in dogs. It is essential to feed your dog a well-balanced meal, but you can eradicate the foods that cause gas and replace them with other foods of the same nutritional value.
- Eating Old Food
Food that is expiring starts to ferment, especially if the food has high levels of moisture. Dogs that eat food that is going bad will develop gas because the digestive tract still has to process it. As the food gets digested, the intestinal enzymes break down the fermented food, which is already producing gas; thus, releasing even more gas.
- Eating Too Fast
No matter how hungry a dog is, gulping down its food at the speed of light is not commendable. The fast-paced eating forces the dog to swallow air, which, in turn, turns to flatulence. It is even worse if the bowl is on a high surface because eating in an elevated position causes the dog to swallow more air than a bowl located on the ground.
- Change in Diet
Have you recently switched kibble brands? Every kibble you buy has its unique formulation, which might or might not agree with your dog. If you notice that your dog is gassier recently, it may be due to the kibble. The dog’s digestive system is trying to get used to the new kibble; thus, the dog might be gassy for a while.
- Infections
Stomach infections due to parasites or viruses can lead your dog to develop excess gas. It is good to deworm your dog regularly to avoid any stomach issues. Infections do not present gas as the only symptom; other symptoms will show up, such as vomiting and diarrhea, to indicate that all is not well. Seek medical attention to fight off these infections and return the dog to a healthy state.
- Excessive Fiber in The Diet
It is strange, but the excess fiber in your dog’s diet can cause excess gas in dogs. Although fiber allows food to move through the digestive tract more comfortably, it slows down the digestion of food. As the food takes longer in the digestive tract, gas continues to build up, therefore, making the dog uncomfortable.
Symptoms Associated with Gas in Dogs
- The dog continuously passes gas or burps.
- Abdominal pain.
- Some dogs get nauseous.
- A rumbling stomach.
- Passing gas with a foul smell.
- A distended stomach caused by pressure in the intestines.
Diagnosis and Treatment
When your dog is feeling unwell, the first thing is to consult the vet. You may underestimate the amount of gas in the dog’s belly, and it ends up turning into bloating. Bloating is one of the more severe conditions that affect dogs if left unattended.
Your vet will run some tests and probably take a stool sample to narrow down the real cause of flatulence. Whether it is due to food or an illness, the doctor will provide a viable working plan to help soothe gas pain. The vet may recommend an adjustment in the diet or prescribe medicine to reduce the discomfort
How to Prevent Overproduction of Gas
The production of gas will not cease because it is a natural process; nevertheless, you can reduce the number of times your dog suffers from excess gas by;
- Adjusting the Diet
If your dog has a sensitive stomach, look for foods that do not produce a lot of gas. Some dogs are lactose intolerant so avoid kibble that features dairy products. Look for kibble that uses natural ingredients devoid of common dog allergens.
- Seek Medication
It is essential to see the vet and get medication to relieve excess gas in dogs suffering from chronic gastrointestinal issues. The vet will prescribe medication that suits the dog’s age and breed to avoid any more complications.
- Invest in Probiotics
Probiotics are fantastic because they promote good bacteria in the digestive system. You can buy kibble that has probiotics so that the dog stocks upon them daily. Alternatively, you can buy capsules, chewy treats, or yogurt, depending on what your dog will ingest quickly.
- Digestive Enzymes
On top of probiotics, digestive enzymes are a superb idea for dogs that don’t digest carbohydrates very well. Consult the vet before introducing digestive enzymes to avoid adverse effects that may affect specific breeds.
- Regular Exercise
Regular exercise is vital for overall wellbeing. Take your dog for a walk or play an hour after eating so that they can release all the gas pent up in their stomachs. Please do not take them for a walk immediately after eating, as this may cause bloating.
Conclusion
No dog owner wants to see their pet in pain; talk to the vet and find viable ways to reduce the dog’s discomfort as they wait to release the gas from their tummies. Once the flatulence dies down, remember to follow the preventative tips to avoid the issue’s reoccurrence or develop bloating. It may not seem simple at first, but once you create a suitable meal plan for your dog’s digestive system, things will get easier.
