Liquid Diet For Dogs With Megaesophagus

If an animal inhales the food or liquid from the esophagus into the lungs this can cause aspiration pneumonia thought to be the most serious complication of this disorder.

Liquid diet for dogs with megaesophagus.

Special measures need to be taken by a dog owner to ensure a dog with megaesophagus is still able to eat and retain its food or this issue can be fatal due to side effects of the disease process. A dog may lower its head to allow the food to slip out with little warning. To care for a dog with megaesophagus try elevating the dog s food bowl several inches off the floor which can help dry food and kibble go down more easily. There are two types of megaesophagus.

Megaesophagus is a disorder in which the esophagus dilates and loses motility. Regurgitation is the most common sign of megaesophagus. This is best accomplished by training dogs to use a bailey chair. Megaesophagus may be genetic especially if seen in puppies.

If dogs are fed by mouth they should feed in an upright position and remain in that position for up to 20 minutes after a meal to allow gravity to assist the movement of food and liquid into their stomachs. When esophageal motility is decreased or absent food and liquid accumulate in the esophagus and have difficulty getting into the stomach. When all else fails a permanent feeding tube can be inserted into the dog s stomach through which owners can administer food and water. Dilation of the esophagus can often be diagnosed by.

Megaesophagus is a serious problem in dogs that affects their ability to swallow and keep food down.