Introduction:
White foam vomiting is a common symptom seen in dogs with digestive upsets. A single episode of vomiting is nothing to worry about. It could be due to a bug swelling unintentionally or some unwanted food.
But if you have seen your dog vomiting white foam often, then it might be an indication of some underlying problem. You must consider calling a vet in such a situation.
If you have come up with the question, “Why is my dog throwing up white foam”, then this article is the complete answer. Keep reading to learn amazing facts.
Why is my dog throwing up white foam?
Dogs usually vomit white or yellowish foam in cases of some medical issues such as indigestion, GIT infection, pancreatitis, or after ingesting some foreign body. Moreover, the underlying cause could be mental health issues, including anxiety and distress.
You might ignore one or two episodes of white foam vomit if your pup is otherwise doing well. However, if it shows other symptoms such as lethargy, numbness, or weakness, then it’s time to call your vet.
To understand white foam vomit in dogs, let’s discuss some common causes, preventive measures, and curative steps below.
Why Is My Dog Throwing Up White Foam? 6 Potential Causes
In this section, let’s discuss some common causes of white foam vomiting in dogs. If your dog is suffering from any of these conditions, then take it seriously and seek medical help.
1- Indigestion:
White foam vomiting in dogs is a common sign of indigestion. Indigestion may be due to any irregular diet, including human food, unwanted waste, or some unhealthy treats. Moreover, GIT distress resulting from overeating may also be a cause of indigestion in your dog.
2: Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is another common cause of vomiting in dogs. It happens when the stomach of your dog is upset and the acid juice flows back into the esophagus. This efflux then causes irritation, nausea, and vomiting.
3- Bloating:
Gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV) is among the most serious emergencies and accompanies white foam vomiting. Signs of GDV include excessive drooling, a swollen belly, and white foam throwing. If you observe any of these signs, immediately rush to your vet.
4: Kennel Cough:
Infectious tracheobronchitis, commonly known as kennel cough, may also cause your dog to throw up white foam. Your dog may get kennel cough from a visit to some kind of dog park or boarding facility. Intense coughing episodes are observed, followed by white foam vomiting.
5- Parasites:
Internal parasites are a common cause of infection in pets. For instance, roundworms and hookworms are the common parasites behind gastric disturbances. As a result of which your dog commonly vomits white foam.
6: Bilious Vomiting Syndrome in Dogs:
It usually occurs during long periods of starvation. In such situations, the bile from the small intestine of your dog starts entering the stomach, resulting in white foam vomiting. Special dietary management is required to deal with such an emergency.
Dealing with White Foam Vomiting in Dogs:
Immediate actions to take when your dog vomits white foam include the following:
1. Isolate Your Dog:
To prevent the spread of disease, isolate your dog from other pets immediately. Also, protect yourself from contagions by using gloves while cleaning your dog’s throw.
2- Hydration:
Hydration is very important when your dog is vomiting frequently. Water intake is very important to compensate for the fluid loss in your pet’s body.
3: Veterinary Consultation:
Home remedies might help, but in cases of severe and frequent vomiting, a vet’s consultation is a must. Only a veterinary doctor can find the underlying cause of the issue and recommend medication after proper diagnosis and testing.
Preventive Measures for Dog Vomiting:
To help your dog prevent vomiting conditions, you should consider taking the following measures:
1: Controlled Diet:
A well-balanced diet is the key to a pet’s health. While choosing the formulated food for your dog, you must consider its age, health, and breed. Moreover, reduce the unhealthy treats for your pup and convert them into healthy feasts.
Maintaining a controlled, well-balanced diet for dogs lowers the risk of digestive ailments and thus prevents vomiting.
2: Regular Visits to the Vet
Routine veterinary check-ups for dogs are a must to avoid any unforeseen health issues. Only an experienced veterinary doctor can detect and prevent health problems in their early stages.
You should take your pet to the vet at least three times a year so that any gastric upsets, including vomiting, can be prevented.
3: Say No to Human Food
Undoubtedly, human food is a leading cause of gastrointestinal issues in pets. White foam vomiting is a common phenomenon after you feed your dog some kind of chocolate, cheese, or tortilla.
To avoid any such conditions, stick to specifically formulated canine foods only.
How Can You Treat Vomiting in Your Dog at Home?
If you have seen a single episode of vomiting in your pup, then the best thing is to withhold its food and water for 10–12 hours. During this period, its GIT will settle the disturbance. After this period, give it some food and see if it can digest it or not.
If you see your dog throwing up white foam again, take the condition seriously and consult a vet. However, if it digests the food without any such symptoms, there is no need to worry more. But this food withholding technique isn’t recommended for puppies, as they might get dehydrated during this time.
You will need to seek professional help if your pet has vomited multiple times during the past 24 hours. Moreover, other symptoms, including diarrhea, weight loss, appetite loss, or lethargy, along with vomiting, demand medical check-ups.
Bottom Line:
It was all about white foam vomit in dogs. Don’t ignore these gastric symptoms if you’re truly concerned about your pup’s health. Moreover, keep an eye on the stuff your pet is taking in.
In case of an emergency, don’t hesitate to consult a vet. Organize routine vet check-ups to ensure your dog’s health and well-being.
