We know the esophagus as a muscular tube that is responsible for connecting the pharynx with the stomach, being of great help to be able to transport each of the foods by performing some movements called peristaltic.
There are causes that can affect each of these movements and that cause what we normally know by the name of megaesophagus.
Megaesophagus in dogs
Considering that this is a problem that can cause serious inconvenience to our pet at mealtime, it is necessary to know how we can feed it in the most suitable way. It is for this reason that we bring all the necessary information to know how to do it.
Before knowing how to properly feed a dog that has this problem, we have to know that it is the megaesophagus. By this we mean that there is a pathological dilation and general shape of the esophagus.
This is something that happens when there is a decrease in motility and is called hypomotility.
This is a drawback that can become congenital or in its difference acquired. The first one we mention is a problem that affects puppies and usually occurs the moment they start to try solid food.
On the other hand and in the second case, is capable of affecting dogs in their adult stage and it can occur for different reasons, either because there is a foreign object in the area or because of a weakness in the muscles.
Symptoms of megaesophagus in dogs
The main symptoms of megaesophagus in dogs, is regurgitating food or also the liquids, becoming so severe, that it can cause aspiration pneumonia.
Losing weight is also part of the symptoms of this disease, as are the constant attempts to swallow. A dog with megaesophagus may regurgitate after several hours of eating food.
The fundamental is know the reason for the appearance of megaesophagus, in order to effectively deliver a treatment. But while that happens, it is essential to have the necessary knowledge to feed it correctly.
This is a disease that makes food intake difficult due to regurgitation, causing our dog's body to not absorb nutrients properly.
Diagnosis and treatment of megaesophagus in dogs
When we observe that our dog has any of the symptoms that we have already mentioned, it is important that we take him to a vet as quickly as possible.
This is a disease that can be diagnosed through an X-ray or with the help of a barium contrast. Likewise, it will also be necessary to know if the dog suffers from pneumonia and depending on what is the cause of the megaesophagus, one treatment or another will be recommended.
If the dog has pneumonia, it is recommended use antibiotics.
Those puppies that have been born with congenital megaesophagus, they can lead a normal life. Apart from the treatment indicated by the specialist, it is necessary to ensure that our dog receives all the necessary nutrients.
For that we have to follow a series of indications to know how to feed it correctly.
- There are dogs that have problems ingesting solid food and there are others that do not have the ability to consume liquids. Therefore, it is important to try the texture that is most comfortable for our dog.
- It is necessary that the feeder and the drinker are placed in a high placeSince when the esophagus is stretched, gravity can be taken advantage of so that food passes from the mouth to the stomach.
- After the dog has eaten, it is recommended that you remain in an upright position for about 15 to 30 minutes so that the food can reach the stomach correctly.
- Food rations should be divided into three or four servings, so that the dog can consume small amounts of food more times a day.