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My dog's stomach is swollen, but she's fine. Is it bloat or not?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | unspayed | 9 years and 9 months old

My dog has had slight swelling in her stomach for nearly 2 days, she has no discomfort, is eating normally and it isn’t rock hard. I’m still worried after seeing things online about bloat - what could be the issue?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Penelope Graben, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 10th, 2018

Hello, There are a few different things that can cause stomach swelling. Bloat is generally a critical emergency and pets need emergency surgery to survive it, so I am doubtful that is what is going on with Ruby. Swelling of any organ in the abdomen can cause the swelled stomach appearance. Organs like the liver and spleen are prone to growing tumors, while the uterus is very prone to infection. I see that she is intact- if her last heat cycle was irregular or she has any vaginal discharge, those may be suggestive of a uterine infection, called pyometra, which requires a hysterectomy for treatment. Fluid accumulations in the abdomen can also create a swollen stomach. Fluid accumulation can happen from an abdominal infection or organ failure, such as liver or heart failure. I would recommend having Ruby seen to find out what exactly is causing her tummy to swell because the treatments are very different depending on the cause and waiting may make a problem much worse. I hope this is helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 11th, 2019

    Hello. Since you indicate that Sasha is unsprayed, could she be pregnant? Other causes of an enlarged abdomen include the presence of fluids such as blood ( hemoabdomen ) or serosal fluids ( ascites ), or even urine from a ruptured bladder ( very serious ). She could also have a bloated appearance due to organomegaly, or enlarge internal organs such as the liver &/or spleen. This situation can be easily diagnosed by your veterinarian. I hope your mom can have Sasha examined as soon as possible. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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