Regurgitation in Dogs

Overview of Canine Regurgitation

Regurgitation is the backward flow or effortless evacuation of fluid, mucus, or undigested food from the esophagus. Unlike vomiting, it is not accompanied by nausea and does not involve forceful abdominal contractions. It is a symptom of esophageal disease and not a disorder in itself.

The timing of regurgitation in relation to eating is determined by the location of esophageal dysfunction, degree of obstruction, and presence or absence of esophageal dilatation. For example in dogs:

Causes of Regurgitation in Dogs

What to Watch For

Veterinary Care for Canine Regurgitation

Care should start with a discussion with your veterinarian who will obtain a medical history about your pet. The initial differentiation between vomiting and regurgitation is important because, not only are different organs involved, but also different diagnostic techniques and therapeutics are warranted. Diagnostic tests and treatment should follow.

Diagnosis of Regurgitation in Dogs

Diagnostic tests are usually needed to determine the cause of regurgitation. A thorough medical history is of paramount importance, confirming that your dog is regurgitating and not vomiting. A thorough physical examination is always necessary as well.

Diagnostic tests for regurgitation in dogs may include:

Treatment of Regurgitation in Dogs

Treatment of the regurgitating dog can either be supportive or specific, where the latter can be instituted when a known underlying cause is identified.

Supportive therapy for regurgitation in dogs may consist of the following:

Home Care

Home care recommendations depend on the underlying cause of the problem. The following general recommendations should be considered:

In-depth Information on Regurgitation in Dogs

One of the most important considerations when managing these patients is to accurately differentiate regurgitation from vomiting. Regurgitation is one of the most commonly misinterpreted signs in veterinary medicine. Obtaining a thorough history is of paramount importance when differentiating the two.

Not only are different organs involved, but also different diagnostic techniques and therapeutics are warranted. Regurgitation can be associated with a multitude of different disease processes, therefore, establishing the underlying cause is essential. Your pet may be very mildly affected, with infrequent and/or subtle signs, or very severely affected, with signs that warrant hospitalization for support and a more aggressive work-up.

Diagnosis In-depth

Therapy In-depth

The following nonspecific (symptomatic) treatments may be applicable to some, but not all pets with regurgitation. These treatments may reduce severity of symptoms or provide relief for your pet. However, nonspecific therapy is not a substitute for definitive treatment of the underlying disease responsible for your pet’s condition.

Unlike vomiting, regurgitation is not accompanied by nausea and does not involve forceful abdominal contractions. It is a symptom of esophageal disease and not a disorder in itself.