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Section: Overview
Abdominal distension is an abnormal enlargement of the abdominal cavity. This term is usually reserved for abdominal enlargement due to causes other than simple obesity.One cause of abdominal distension is fluid accumulation. The types of fluids include blood from internal hemorrhage (bleeding), urine from a tear in the urinary tract, exudate (cellular fluids similar to pus) from infection as with feline infectious peritonitis, and transudates (clear fluids), that are leaked from vessels.Another cause of abdominal distension is enlargement of any abdominal organ including the liver, kidneys, or spleen. Distension of the stomach with air ("bloating") or fluid or distension of the uterus (womb) during pregnancy, can result in abdominal distension.Tumors within the abdomen can also cause abdominal distension. The tumor may be malignant (an invasive cancer), or benign, (abnormal but not spreading to other tissues).
The primary causes of obesity in dogs are overeating and lack of exercise. When regular caloric intake exceeds the energy burned, the excess is stored as fat on your dog.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) often referred to as “bloat,” is a serious condition caused by abnormal dilatation and twisting of the stomach in dogs. Bloating of the stomach is often related to swallowed...
Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant cancer of the cells that form blood vessels, and when these tumors rupture, serious internal bleeding can occur. Hemangiosarcoma is considered to be a very aggressive tumor...
Ascites is the abnormal accumulation of fluid caused by the leakage of fluid into the abdomen from blood vessels, lymphatics, internal organs or abdominal masses. Treatment will vary depending on the cause...
An abdominal radiograph is a procedure that allows your veterinarian to visualize tissue, organs and bones that lie beneath the skin.
Hemoperitoneum is blood within the peritoneal (abdominal) cavity; it accumulates in the space between the inner lining of the abdominal wall and the internal abdominal organs. Common causes include trauma,...
An ultrasound evaluates the internal organs of the abdomen through the use of sound waves. Ultrasound and X-rays often go hand-in-hand because ultrasound shows a motion picture of the organs as they are...
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