The dog's death, why is its stomach bloated? - briefly
The primary cause of a dog's bloated stomach during or after death is often gastric dilation and volvulus (GDV), also known as "bloat." This condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas, fluid, or food, causing it to expand and potentially twist, leading to decreased blood flow and ultimately, death.
The dog's death, why is its stomach bloated? - in detail
The distension of a dog's stomach after death can be attributed to several factors. One primary cause is the accumulation of gases produced by bacterial activity within the digestive tract. When a dog dies, the normal processes that regulate and expel these gases cease, leading to their buildup. This can result in significant bloating, giving the appearance of a swollen or distended abdomen.
Another contributing factor is decomposition. As the body begins to break down after death, the release of gases from tissue degradation adds to the overall pressure within the stomach and intestines. This process can be accelerated by heat and humidity, further exacerbating the bloating effect.
In some cases, the consumption of certain foods or substances before death can also lead to stomach distension. For example, if a dog ingests something that is difficult to digest or causes gastric irritation, it may result in increased gas production and subsequent bloating after death.
It's important to note that while a bloated stomach is a common post-mortem occurrence, the specific cause can vary depending on individual circumstances. Therefore, a thorough examination by a veterinary professional may be necessary to determine the exact reasons behind this phenomenon in any given case.