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Dog ColicDog colic refers to any condition that causes pain, inflammation, gas, or other discomfort in the dog's colon.
Colic affects dogs of all ages and breeds, but young puppies are particularly prone to it.
Most commonly, dog colic is as a result of
flatulence (trapped gas), usually associated with
abdominal distention (bloat) and irritability. It can cause extreme discomfort in our
pups, and is potentially life threatening in some serious cases if proper treatment is not given immediately.
Causes of Dog ColicColic can be acute or chronic. Acute colic is most commonly caused by something eaten by the dog, such as spoilt food, garbage, toxic or poisonous substances such as pesticides. It may also be caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. Chronic colic is usually the result of more serious underlying causes, such as a parasitic infection (e.g. worms, giardia), a deficiency in liver or gallbladder functions, an ulcer, inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, a tumor, or an injury in the digestive tract. TopSymptoms of Dog Colic
If your dog has colic, he will show some or all of the following symptoms:
Natural Remedies for Dog ColicTo cure colic (especially chronic, recurring cases), it is important to have your dog undergo a physical check-up so that the underlying root causes can be identified and dealt with. In the meantime, however, natural remedies such as herbs can be used to relieve the uncomfortable symptoms of colic.
Herbs that are carminatives (i.e. herbs that relax stomach muscles and relieve intestinal gas) are helpful to eliminate excess gas and stop flatulence in dogs. Here are some
carminative herbs that you can easily and safely feed to your dog:
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Preventing Dog Colic
To prevent the onset of a colic attack in your dog, try the following:- If you have not already done so, switch your dog's food to a well-balanced, all natural diet.
- When switching to a new diet, do not switch over suddenly. Introduce the new food slowly and gradually by mixing the new food with the old one and allow 5 to 7 days for a complete switch over.
- Avoid feeding your dog sugary foods or greasy table scraps.
- Keep toxic and poisonous substances away from your dog. Do not let your dog eat spoilt food from garbage cans.
- Encourage your dog to drink plenty of fresh, clean water.
- Have your dog checked for worms regularly and if necessary de-worm your dog to make sure that he is worm free.
Related Topics Dog Bloat
Flatulence in Dogs
References D. Hamilton, Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs (North Atlantic Books, 1999).
M.L. Wulff-Tilford and G.L. Tilford, Herbs for Pets (Bowtie Press, 1999).
TOP of Dog Colic
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It is not intended to replace the advice and treatment of a veterinarian.