Lucy, a small but mighty Shih Tzu, arrived at i-Care Veterinary Hospital with a severely bloated belly and laboured breathing. Her concerned family had watched her abdomen gradually swell over time, prompting them to seek urgent veterinary care. Our team quickly identified that Lucy was suffering from ascites, an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, caused by portal hypertension related to her chronic liver disease.
To provide immediate relief, Dr. Alastair Westcott performed an abdominocentesis, a procedure to safely drain the excess fluid. The results were dramatic and instantaneous: Lucy shed two litres of fluid, equivalent to 4.4 pounds, allowing her to breathe and move with newfound ease.
Understanding Ascites in Dogs
Ascites is not a disease itself but rather a symptom of an underlying health condition. The buildup of fluid in the abdominal cavity can be caused by several factors:
- Portal hypertension from chronic liver disease, which increases pressure in the portal vein system and leads to fluid leakage into the abdomen
- Heart failure, which can cause fluid accumulation throughout the body when the heart cannot efficiently pump blood
- Malignancies, where tumors may obstruct lymphatic or blood flow, disrupting normal fluid balance
- Hypoproteinemia (low protein levels in the blood), which reduces the blood’s ability to hold fluid, causing it to seep into tissues and cavities
In Lucy’s case, her ascites stemmed primarily from portal hypertension associated with her chronic liver disease.
Diagnosing Lucy’s Condition
A comprehensive ultrasound revealed that while Lucy had a liver tumour, the primary cause of her fluid accumulation was portal hypertension. Since she was already receiving appropriate medication to manage her underlying condition, our immediate priority was to alleviate her discomfort by removing the excess abdominal fluid.
The Procedure: Abdominocentesis Explained
To address Lucy’s distended abdomen, Dr. Westcott performed an abdominocentesis, a delicate procedure requiring precision and care. This involved:
- Carefully preparing and sterilizing the abdominal area
- Inserting a specialized sterile needle into Lucy’s abdomen
- Using a syringe and tubing system to extract the fluid gradually
This methodical approach was crucial, as removing too much fluid too rapidly can trigger a dangerous drop in blood pressure. The procedure was conducted in controlled stages to ensure Lucy’s safety and comfort throughout.
After several careful extraction rounds, the final tally came to exactly two litres, an impressive volume for a dog of Lucy’s size.
Results: A Rejuvenated Lucy
The transformation was remarkable. Post-procedure, Lucy’s abdomen returned to a normal size, and she had shed 4.4 pounds of excess fluid. Most significantly, her breathing normalized, and her comfort level improved dramatically. She continued her medication regimen, and we provided her family with clear guidelines for monitoring potential fluid re-accumulation.
While portal hypertension is a chronic condition that may necessitate repeat procedures in the future, proper management can help maintain Lucy’s quality of life and comfort.
When to Seek Veterinary Care
A distended abdomen in dogs is never normal and often signals serious underlying issues such as liver disease, heart conditions, or malignancies. If you notice your dog developing:
- A swollen or bloated abdomen
- Laboured or rapid breathing
- Sudden weight gain
- Decreased appetite or energy
- Discomfort when the abdomen is touched
Contact your veterinarian immediately. Early intervention is crucial for managing these conditions effectively and ensuring your pet’s comfort and longevity.
Professional Care When You Need It
If you notice concerning symptoms in your pet, i-Care Veterinary Hospital is ready to provide expert diagnosis and compassionate treatment.