Acute infectious enteritis in dogs
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Enteritis is an infectious process occurring in the gastrointestinal tract, which is characterized by a sudden onset with vomiting and diarrhea, rapid pulse, fever, apathy and depression. In vomit and diarrhea masses may contain blood. Dehydration quickly occurs. Dogs under the age of one year and older than 10 years are particularly sensitive to the effects of dehydration and shock.
The most common cause of infectious enteritis in dogs is parvovirus. In some cases, its development is led by Salmonella, Escherichia coli and Campylobacter.
The bacterium Clostridium perfringens causes hemorrhagic gastroenteritis in dogs. This disease begins suddenly, with the appearance of vomiting, followed by profuse bloody diarrhea 2-3 hours later. In small breeds, especially miniature schnauzers and toy poodles, there is a predisposition to hemorrhagic gastroenteritis.
Symptoms similar to acute enteritis can cause poisoning with waste, as well as swallowing poisonous substances and toxic chemicals. If diarrhea and vomiting occur simultaneously, the condition of the dog is considered severe and requires an immediate visit to the vet.
Treatment: a rapid recovery of fluid loss and electrolytes is necessary. There may be a need for intravenous administration of solutions. To eliminate the bacteria that caused enteritis, appropriate antibiotics can be prescribed. In addition, there may be a need for medications that control vomiting and / or diarrhea.
[