what is the treatment for megaesohagus in dogs?

Question

dog is a golden retriever who is 2 yrs old and has lost a lot of weight. been feeding a gruel type of food to help him put on weight

Answer 1

If an underlying disease is identified, specific therapy to control the disease will be started. Because these patients have such poor esophageal function, changes to their diet and feeding are also necessary. Elevated feedings are used to allow gravity to aid in getting food from the mouth to the stomach. Different consistencies of food, such as meatballs or gruel, may help in these patients as well.

Patients with aspiration pneumonia may need to be more intensively managed with antibiotics or intravenous fluids.

If regurgitation is persistent or too great a risk for a particular patient, then a temporary or permanent stomach tube may be required.

What is the prognosis for patients with megaesophagus?

Prognosis is dependent on a few factors. Young dogs with congenital megaesophagus may have improvement in the esophageal function as they mature. Older dogs however may never see a return to normal esophageal function. The prognosis in these patients depends on consistent nutritional support and how frequently they develop aspiration pneumonia. Pets that develop megaesophagus secondary to another disease may have a more favorable prognosis if the underlying problem can be successfully managed.



http://www.gcvs.com/internists/megaesophagus.htm

Answer 2

It also helps to feed them off an elevated feeder frequently standing front feet on something like a low stool, so the front end id higher than the rear. Keep them that way for a bit after eating.

Answer 3

Maybe try an mild steroid or an anti-inflamatory. You need to take him to your vet to find out the cause. Surgery is recommended if he keeps losing weight. Sorry

Answer 4

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