Yes, Whippets have sensitive stomachs. However, like many dog breeds, some Whippets may have more sensitive stomachs than others. That said, it’s important to remember that every dog is unique and may have specific dietary needs or sensitivities.
If you have a Whippet with a sensitive stomach, it’s important to work closely with your veterinarian to develop a diet that meets their nutritional needs while minimizing digestive discomfort. Additionally, it’s important to monitor your Whippet’s eating habits and digestive health and seek veterinary care if you notice any signs of digestive upset, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of appetite.
Common Stomach Issues in Whippets
Whippets, like any other dog breed, can experience various stomach problems. Here are some of the common stomach problems that Whippets may experience include.
Gastritis
Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining, which can cause digestive upset in Whippets and other dogs. Gastritis can have many causes, including bacterial or viral infections, dietary indiscretion (such as eating garbage or spoiled food), stress, and certain medications.
The symptoms of gastritis in Whippets can vary depending on the severity of the inflammation and the underlying cause. For example, whippets with gastritis may frequently vomit, sometimes bringing up bile or blood.
They may refuse to eat or show a decreased interest in food, appear uncomfortable or restless, and whine or pant due to abdominal discomfort. Whippets may become dehydrated if they cannot keep food or water down. Some Whippets with gastritis may have loose stools or diarrhea.
Bloat
Bloat, also known as gastric dilation volvulus (GDV), is a life-threatening condition that can occur in Whippets and other dog breeds. Bloat occurs when the stomach fills with gas or fluid, causing it to expand and pressure surrounding organs. In severe cases, the stomach can twist on itself (volvulus), cutting off blood flow and causing tissue death.
Whippets with bloat will have a visibly distended abdomen, which may be hard to the touch. They may appear anxious or restless, unable to settle down, and attempting to vomit, but no food or liquid comes up. As the stomach expands, it can pressure the diaphragm, making it difficult for Whippets to breathe. In severe cases, Whippets may collapse or go into shock.
Some factors may increase a Whippet’s risk of developing bloat, including being a deep-chested breed, eating large meals, eating too quickly, and having a family history of bloat. Taking steps to prevent bloat, such as feeding small, frequent meals and avoiding exercise after meals, may help reduce the risk of the condition.
Food Allergies or Intolerances
Food allergies are an immune response to a specific ingredient in the diet, while food intolerances are a non-immune reaction to a particular food component. Both conditions can cause gastrointestinal symptoms in Whippets, such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and skin problems such as itching or rash.
It’s important to note that some Whippets may develop food allergies or intolerances over time, even if they have been eating the same diet for a long period. In these cases, switching to a hypoallergenic diet or eliminating certain ingredients may be necessary to manage the condition. Therefore, working closely with your veterinarian can help you identify the underlying cause of the reaction and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is a condition in which the pancreas becomes inflamed, causing digestive enzymes to be released into the surrounding tissue. This can lead to a range of symptoms in Whippets, including abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.
The causes and risk factors of pancreatitis in Whippets can vary. Still, they may include high-fat diets, obesity, certain medications such as corticosteroids, blunt trauma to the abdomen or other injuries, and underlying health conditions, including hypothyroidism.
Preventing pancreatitis in Whippets can involve:
- Feeding a balanced, low-fat diet.
- Maintaining a healthy weight.
- Avoiding certain medications unless necessary.
Working closely with your veterinarian to monitor your Whippet’s health can also help identify and manage underlying conditions that may increase the risk of pancreatitis.
What to Do if Your Whippet Has a Stomach Issue
If you suspect your Whippet has a stomach issue, it’s important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation. In addition, your veterinarian can perform a physical exam, blood tests, and other diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of the symptoms and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
In the meantime, you can take several steps to help manage your Whippet’s symptoms and provide them with comfort:
- Withhold food and water – If your Whippet is vomiting or has diarrhea, it may be necessary to withhold food and water for a few hours to allow their stomach to settle. After this period, offer small amounts of water or ice chips and gradually introduce small amounts of bland, low-fat food.
- Supportive care – Provide your Whippet with a comfortable, quiet space to rest and avoid stressful situations. You can also offer them a heating pad or hot water bottle wrapped in a towel to provide warmth and comfort.
- Monitor their symptoms – Keep track of your Whippet’s symptoms and report any changes or concerns to your veterinarian. This can help ensure they receive appropriate treatment and management of their condition.
- Follow your veterinarian’s instructions – Your veterinarian may prescribe medication or dietary changes to manage your Whippet’s stomach issue. It’s important to follow their instructions carefully and administer medication as directed.
- Prevent future stomach issues – To help prevent future stomach issues in your Whippet, feed them a balanced, low-fat diet, avoid table scraps or other foods that may upset their stomach, and keep them at a healthy weight. It’s also important to keep up with regular veterinary check-ups to identify any underlying health conditions that may increase their risk of stomach issues.
