Ascites is the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the peritoneum (serous membrane that forms the lining of the abdominal cavity).It is common in dogs and endangers the dogs life in extreme cases where large amount of fluid is produced, or rapidly produced. In dog the ascitic fluid may go upto 20 litres.
Causes of ascites
a.Severe liver diseases like hepatitis and liver cirrhosis leads to
decreased albumin production or by increased resistance to blood
flow within the liver.
b.Congestive cardiac failure, cardiac insufficiency.
c.Peritonitis- inflammation of peritoneum which causes leakage of
intestinal contents.
d.Compression of mesenteric vein and lymphatic vessels by large
tumor and cyst
e.Infestation of dog by heart worms causing cardiac failure.
f.Bleeding disorder which might be inherited or due to ingestion of
poison.
g.Malabsorption of protein and excessive loss of protein through
faeces.
h.Retention of sodium due to renal insufficiency.
Signs and symptoms of ascites in dog
Swollen abdomen or abdominal distention will be seen in dog and it may assume a pear shaped appearance. The dog is anemic, pale, weak with sunken eyes and the ribs are visible very prominently. Dog refuses to eat food and there is increase heart rate. Temperature may remain within the normal range with accelerated respiration rate. Breathing difficulty is seen in the dog and the dog is inclined to lie down.
The lines of treatment for ascites are as follows
a.The dog should be fed with high protein and low sodium diet
b.Diuretics such as thiazide or lasix
c.Corticosteroid as supportive theraphy
d.Spironolactone – potassium sparing diuretics
e.Vitamins and minerals and deworming of the dog
In serious cases, ascites is treated by “paracentesis abdominalis” where a needle or trocar and canula is inserted in the site between the umbilicus and pubis close to the linea alba. This is done to drain out the excessive fluids from the peritoneum.
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