Acid reflux is a condition characterized by the uncontrollable reverse flow of gastric or intestinal fluids into the tube connecting the throat and the stomach (esophagus). This may be due to a brief relaxation of the muscular opening at the base of the esophagus (referred to as the sphincter), as well as chronic vomiting. Gastroesophageal reflux is fairly common in dogs, and may occur at any age, although younger dogs are at greater risk.
As a result, the gastric stomach acid and other components of the gastrointestinal juices cause damage to the protective mucus lining the esophagus. This can result in inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis).
The condition or disease described in this medical article can affect both dogs and cats.
What are the symptoms and types of acid reflux?
Gastroesophageal reflux can cause esophagitis with varying amounts of damage. Mild esophagitis is limited to a mild inflammation of the esophageal lining, while more severe ulcerative esophagitis causes damage to the deeper layers of the esophagus.
The dog’s behavioral history can reveal symptoms such as spitting up (regurgitation) of food, evidence of pain (whining or howling, for example) while swallowing, lack of appetite, and weight loss. A physical exam will often not reveal any concrete findings. Severe esophagitis may include symptoms of fever and extreme salivation.
Treatment
Most treatment is done at home, by withholding food for one to two days, and thereafter following a dietary regimen of low-fat, low-protein meals given in small, frequent feedings. Dietary fat and protein should be limited, as fat decreases the strength of the muscle between the stomach and esophagus, while protein stimulates the secretion of gastric acid.
(Famotidine/Pepcid is available in 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg tablets as well as in the form of oral powder. The recommended dose of Famotidine to be administered to pets is 0.25 to 0.5 mg per pound (0.5 to 1.0 mg/kg) every 12 to 24 hours.If you miss a dose while giving your pet Famotidine, administer is as soon as your remember during the same day. However, if you do not remember until the next day, skip the missed dose and only give your pet the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not give your pet a double dose of Famotidine.
Overdose of Famotidine is rare, but if you suspect your pet may have overdosed, seek emergency veterinary medical treatment. Symptoms of Famotidine overdose may include vomiting, pale gums, rapid heart rate, restlessness, or collapse.
Medications are an additional option. Drugs known as gastrointestinal pro-kinetic agents improve the movement of stomach contents through the intestines and also strengthens the gastroesophageal sphincter. Regardless of any medications, a change in diet is advisable.
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