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Enteritis in dogs

Enteritis in Dogs

Enteritis in dogs is an extremely common illness that is seen in pet dogs.



This condition causes an inflammation of the intestines, particularly that of the small intestines. A number of bacteria and viruses can cause this infection in dogs. Enteritis in dogs may be caused due to bacteria such as salmonella, staphylococcus, shigella, and escherichia coli, etc. Since the causes of enteritis in dogs are also viral, some of the viruses that could be responsible for the condition include parvovirus, rotavirus, and coronavirus.



Unlike some of the other dog diseases, enteritis in dogs is not particular to any breed. There are no breeds that pose higher susceptibility to the condition. Your dog may get enteritis at any point in its life.

Enteritis in Dogs Symptoms


For enteritis in dogs, symptoms can be noticed very easily.



Since the condition affects the small intestines, the passage of waste material from the body becomes very rapid. This is because the intestines are not able to retain the nutrients properly. The dog may be seen passing loose stools very frequently throughout the day. The fecal material is also extremely foul smelling. Some of the other symptoms of the condition are diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and dehydration. The dog may also experience muscle cramps all over the body, especially in the abdomen. See also Clostridial enteritis in dogs

Enteritis in dogs requires timely intervention by a veterinarian. It is important to give enteritis in dogs treatment as soon as possible. If the condition is not treated on time, it can become severe and you can see blood in the stools. If your dog is passing stools that have the appearance of dark, thick blood, it could be an indication of heavy damage sustained by the dog. However, if the blood is bright in color, it means that the large intestines have incurred some damage. Enteritis symptoms are usually mild and may disappear on their own. However, this does not always mean that the inflammation in the intestines has subsided. Enteritis in dogs is a serious condition, and one which requires immediate attention. Since the signs of the condition are alarming, you should ideally take your dog to the hospital as soon as you observe the first symptoms. The treatment of the condition almost always depends on the age of the dog, and the extent to which the disease has progressed. The doctor may also find out whether the condition has been caused by a bacteria or a virus. Enteritis in dogs, caused by bacteria, is easier to treat than that which is caused by virus. Read more on Lymphoplasmacytic Enteritis in Dogs

 
  Submitted on February 15, 2011  
 
 
 

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