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My dog is lethargic, stomach tight but not distended. Is it bloat?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pekingese | Male | unneutered | 6 years and 8 months old | 14 lbs

Unsure if my dog has bloat? He has been lethargic, his stomach feels tight but isn’t distended and isn’t painful to the touch. He’s eaten and drank water twice today. He’s a 7-year-old pekingese

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 18th, 2018

I wouldn't worry about bloat if he's eating and drinking OK. Lethargy and a firm abdomen can indicate that something is causing pain in the abdomen, but is not specific to any one problem. It could be an intestinal disease, liver information, kidney inflammation, or other condition affecting abdominal organs. In order to narrow-down the cause of this, Confucius needs to be evaluated by a veterinarian. It's not an emergency, but good to have him seen in the next day or two. I hope that helps and Confucious feels better soon.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on May 16th, 2017

    It sounds as if Boo may not be feeling very well or is in some pain which is why he doesn't want to move. If he's not eating or drinking much, or his abdomen appears swollen or is painful it could indicate a GI issue such as bloat, obstruction or pancreatitis. As these can be serious conditions and Boo has been acting ill for a day, it is best to seek veterinary care ASAP to have him examined. If he starts to have any trouble breathing, attempts to vomit or defecate and can't, or his abdomen swells up and becomes extremely painful it may be an emergency situation that should be checked out immediately.

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