Dog's Stomach Gurgling and Not Eating: Is It an Emergency?

When your dog's stomach is gurgling like crazy and he won't eat, it can be both confusing and concerning. That rumbling stomach paired with a turned-up nose at mealtime often signals something isn't right with your furry friend.

Understanding when these symptoms require immediate attention versus when they might resolve on their own can make all the difference in your dog's health and recovery. Let's explore what might be happening and when you should seek help.

Top Questions About Dog's Stomach Gurgling and Not Eating

When should I be worried about my dog's stomach gurgling?

When your dog's stomach is gurgling like crazy and they won't eat, it could range from a minor digestive upset to a serious medical emergency. Call a veterinarian right away if the gurgling is accompanied by repeated vomiting, a swollen stomach, signs of pain, or if your dog seems very weak. These symptoms could indicate a potentially life-threatening condition.

How can I tell if my dog's gurgling stomach is serious?

Watch for warning signs including difficult breathing, repeated vomiting or diarrhea, extreme discomfort, or inability to get comfortable. Check if your dog's stomach feels unusually hard or distended. Pale or bluish gums require quick veterinary attention.

What if my dog refuses both food and water?

Complete refusal of both food and water for more than 24 hours is concerning and requires veterinary attention. Dehydration can develop quickly, especially in small dogs. Offer small sips of water, but call your veterinarian for guidance if your dog won't drink or vomits after drinking.

Could my dog have eaten something harmful?

Dogs with access to trash, toxic plants, human medications, or small objects that could be swallowed are at risk for harmful ingestions. Check your home for evidence of chewed items or missing objects. Recent access to chemicals, certain human foods, or household items should prompt a call to your veterinarian.

Why Dogs' Stomachs Gurgle and They Stop Eating

Stomach gurgling (borborygmi) happens when gas and fluid move through the intestines. While some gurgling is normal, excessive noise combined with refusing food often indicates a problem. Common causes include eating something unusual, stress, infections, or more serious conditions like blockages or inflammation.

Spotting Mild Cases

Mild cases typically involve occasional stomach gurgling with temporary appetite loss lasting less than 24 hours. Your dog might seem otherwise normal – maintaining energy levels, drinking water, and showing no signs of pain. These episodes often clear up naturally, especially if caused by minor dietary changes or brief stress.

Recognizing Serious Cases

Serious cases require quick veterinary attention. Watch for repeated vomiting, obvious discomfort, a swollen stomach, inability to keep water down, or signs of severe pain like whining or a hunched posture. Rapid breathing, weakness, collapse, or pale gums indicate a true emergency that needs immediate professional care.

What To Do

Step 1: Call a Veterinary Professional

Call a veterinary clinic right away to discuss your dog's symptoms. Describe the stomach gurgling, when your dog last ate, and any other symptoms you've noticed. The clinic can help determine if your dog needs to be seen immediately or can be monitored at home.

Step 2: Watch for New or Worsening Symptoms

Keep a close eye on your dog while waiting for veterinary guidance. Note any changes in behavior, new symptoms, or worsening of existing ones. Write down when symptoms started and how they've progressed to share with your veterinarian.

Step 3: Reduce Movement and Stress

Keep your dog in a quiet, comfortable space to minimize stress on their digestive system. Avoid rough play, exercise, or car rides unless you're heading to the veterinarian. A calm environment can help prevent worsening of potential gut issues.

Step 4: Follow Veterinary Guidance

If advised to bring your dog in, do so without delay. Bring any relevant information about recent diet changes, possible ingestions, or medication history. Offer small sips of water only if recommended by your veterinarian, and call your veterinary clinic immediately for guidance on when to resume normal feeding and drinking.

Potential Life-Threatening Conditions

Bloat

Bloat happens when a dog's stomach fills with gas and potentially twists on itself. This condition is a true emergency requiring quick veterinary intervention. Signs include a swollen stomach, unproductive retching, restlessness, and rapid deterioration. Large, deep-chested breeds are particularly susceptible, but it can affect any dog.

Toxic Ingestion

Certain foods, plants, and household products can cause severe digestive upset when ingested. Common toxins include chocolate, grapes, xylitol (in sugar-free products), and many medications. Stomach gurgling with appetite loss after potential exposure to toxins requires quick veterinary attention.

Stomach Blockage

Foreign objects or severe constipation can block the digestive tract, causing loud gurgling sounds as the body tries to move contents past the obstruction. Dogs with blockages typically refuse food, may vomit, and show signs of stomach pain. This condition requires prompt veterinary care to prevent serious complications.

Helping Your Pet Before the Vet Visit

Offer Small Sips of Water

Dehydration can worsen your dog's condition, but too much water at once might trigger vomiting. Offer a few tablespoons of water at a time, waiting 30 minutes between offerings. Call your veterinary clinic immediately if your dog refuses water or vomits after drinking.

Avoid Introducing New Foods

Don't offer treats, human food, or new dog foods in an attempt to stimulate appetite. These could further upset your dog's digestive system. Withhold food during acute vomiting episodes and call your veterinarian for guidance on when to resume feeding.

Preventing Future Episodes

Maintain a Consistent Feeding Schedule

Regular mealtimes help maintain digestive health and prevent empty stomach issues. Feed your dog at the same times each day, using appropriate portions based on their size and activity level. Consider splitting daily food into smaller, more frequent meals if your dog has experienced digestive issues in the past.

Address Potential Stressors

Anxiety and stress can trigger digestive upset in dogs. Identify and minimize stressors like loud noises, changes in routine, or separation anxiety. Creating a calm environment and maintaining consistent daily routines can help prevent stress-related digestive problems.

We're Here to Help

We understand how worrying it can be when your dog's stomach is gurgling loudly and they won't eat.

For mild symptoms like occasional gurgling with normal energy levels, your primary veterinarian can provide appropriate care. For severe symptoms like repeated vomiting, bloating, or signs of pain, emergency veterinary care is needed right away.

If you're not sure, call us — we can talk you through the situation.

Key Takeaways

• Loud stomach gurgling combined with refusing food can indicate anything from minor upset to serious conditions.
• Call a veterinarian immediately if you notice severe symptoms like bloating, repeated vomiting, or signs of pain.
• Offer small sips of water as directed, but always seek professional guidance before attempting home care.