When a Maltese has Colitis, their colon or large intestine becomes swollen. This causes a disruption of the normal digestive process. Because the dog may show symptoms on and off, it is important to know the signs and seek diagnosis and treatment no matter how often or how rarely your dog's physical symptoms are present.
What are the Symptoms of a Maltese with Colitis?
Most Maltese dogs with colitis look and feel quite normal when this health condition is in a mild phase. The dog will:
Have mucus in the feces
Have small amounts of blood in the feces
In more severe cases, the Maltese dog will:
Vomit
Show signs of pain - a dog may not want to play, not want to exercise, eat less, retreat to a quiet corner and/or act aggressive if someone comes too close.
Show signs of pain when eliminating - this will be in the form of whining, crying or circling around.
Constipation - because of the possible discomfort, a Maltese dog will often try to hold in their bowel movement. You will notice that your dog has not had a movement for a couple of days.
Diarrhea - the will also have mucus and/or blood in most cases
What Causes This?
The 3 main causes of canine colitis are:
Stress - a dog may be sensitive to such things as:
Moving to a new home
The addition of a new family member, dog or other pet
Sudden separation anxiety - if an owner who was previously home often, now has to leave the house and the dog is alone See Separation Anxiety
Bacterial Infection
Parasites
How is the Maltese Dog Diagnosed?
If you notice any of the above symptoms, your dog's veterinarian should perform a complete checkup and testing for Colitis should be part of that. A rectal exam should be performed and usually a Colonoscopy will be done. If canine Colitis is suspected, a biopsy of the colon's wall will be done to confirm diagnosis. Your dog's veterinarian will msot often ask you to bring in a stool sample to be tested, as well.
. How is the Maltese Treated?
A diet of mild foods is recommended. This can include rice and cottage cheese to allow the dog’s colon to rest.
Antibiotics may be given to prevent or control any bacterial causes of the canine Colitis.
Sulfa-containing medication and/or steroid medication may be given.
Having All of the Needed Knowledge
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