What causes bloat?

[JoJo]

In another thread the subject of bloat came up and several of us had different theories on what causes bloat. After doing some thinking I decided to surf the web for some answers to that basic question. I found several links which had some very similar causes and facts and yet some contradicting facts. Veterinarians differ in opinions. I guess more studies need to be done. With all honesty, I'm not wearing my glasses to read the fine print of when these articles were written, compared to the study of the one mentioned in the other post. One of the common ones with all three of these articles is how and what the dog is fed. Also stress as a factor.

Bloat (Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus) in Dogs

Canine Bloat - Tufts Breeding & Genetics 2003

Bloat in Dogs

[Debbie Ervin]

I too am interested in bloat as I have a older Rottie and need to be very careful especially because he is on predisone which makes him hungry and thirsty more then normal. My opinion and I talked it over with my vet is: a main cause of bloat is eating too fast and drinking alot of water right after or before. Also eating only 1 meal a day can cause this since it is a big meal and they say you should give them 2 to 3 meals a day and not drink excessive water 1 hour before or after a meal. I feed my dogs 2 meals a day and I have been letting him drink a little water after a meal then I pick it up for 1 hour, then he can have all the water he wants. I think what happens is the intestines get twisted from being so full and full of water and it cuts off blood supply and oxyen. It also is caused from when the dogs are eating fast and they are taking in too much air. NOT GOOD! So on top of some minor problems I am having at the moment with Ceasar, I am not going to cause a senseless major problem for him. So I watch. Bloat can cause death! Hope this healped alittle. This is my opinion and I spoke w/my vet about it. D. Ervin