Nausea in dogs can be as uncomfortable for them as it is distressing for us as pet owners. It’s heartbreaking to see your furry friend feeling queasy, and one of the most noticeable signs of nausea in dogs is excessive drooling. Drooling often accompanies nausea and can be a strong indicator that something’s wrong with their stomach. In this article, we’ll cover the common causes of nausea in dogs, how to identify it, home remedies, and when it’s time to seek veterinary care.

What Are the Common Causes of Nausea in Dogs?

Nausea in dogs can be triggered by a variety of factors. It’s important to understand these potential causes so you can quickly identify and address the issue.

1. Motion Sickness

Many dogs, like humans, can suffer from motion sickness. It’s particularly common in puppies or young dogs whose inner ears aren’t fully developed yet. Long car rides, boat trips, or even turbulent airplane travel can leave your pup feeling dizzy and nauseous.

2. Dietary Indiscretion

Dogs are notorious for eating things they shouldn’t, whether it’s table scraps, garbage, or random objects. Eating too much or too fast, or consuming something that doesn’t agree with them, can lead to an upset stomach. This can cause nausea, followed by drooling, lip licking, and sometimes vomiting.

3. Diet Changes

Switching your dog’s food too quickly or introducing a new diet can disrupt their digestive system. Dogs need time to adjust to new food, so a sudden change can lead to nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort. It’s always best to introduce new food gradually over a week or more.

4. Medications

Some medications, including antibiotics or pain relievers, can cause nausea in dogs as a side effect. If your dog starts drooling excessively after being put on a new medication, nausea could be the culprit. Always monitor your dog when they’re on new medication.

5. Underlying Health Conditions

Certain illnesses can cause nausea in dogs, such as liver disease, kidney problems, pancreatitis, or gastrointestinal disorders like inflammatory bowel disease. In these cases, nausea might be accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss, diarrhea, or lethargy.

How Can I Tell if My Dog is Nauseous?

Dogs can’t tell us when they feel nauseous, so we need to rely on their behavior and physical signs to figure out what’s going on. Fortunately, there are several common signs of nausea in dogs that can tip you off.

1. Excessive Drooling

One of the most common and noticeable signs of nausea in dogs is excessive drooling. If your dog is suddenly producing a lot of saliva, especially in situations like car rides or after eating something unfamiliar, nausea could be the issue.

2. Lip Licking

Dogs that are feeling queasy often lick their lips or smack their mouths repeatedly. This behavior may be an effort to deal with the excess saliva that comes with nausea.

3. Vomiting or Dry Heaving

While vomiting is an obvious sign, some dogs may not vomit right away but may retch or dry heave. If your dog seems to be struggling with an upset stomach but isn’t bringing anything up, they might still be nauseous.

4. Loss of Appetite

A dog that usually has a healthy appetite but suddenly refuses food or eats very little might be feeling nauseous. They may also act reluctant to drink water, which can lead to dehydration if the nausea persists.

5. Restlessness or Lethargy

Some dogs become restless and seem unable to settle when they’re nauseous, pacing or changing positions frequently. On the other hand, some dogs may become lethargic and prefer to lie down in a quiet spot, showing little interest in their usual activities.

6. Swallowing or Gulping

If your dog is swallowing or gulping repeatedly, it could be a sign they’re trying to avoid vomiting or keep down stomach acid.

When Should I Be Concerned About My Dog’s Nausea?

While occasional nausea is usually not a cause for alarm, there are certain scenarios where you should seek veterinary attention for your dog.

1. Persistent Vomiting

If your dog has been vomiting frequently, especially over several hours or days, it’s time to consult your vet. Persistent vomiting can lead to dehydration and may signal a more serious underlying issue.

2. Blood in Vomit or Stool

Blood in your dog’s vomit or stool is never normal. It could indicate anything from a minor stomach ulcer to a more severe condition like poisoning or internal injury. Seek immediate veterinary care if you notice this.

3. Accompanying Symptoms

If your dog’s nausea is paired with symptoms like diarrhea, fever, lethargy, or weight loss, it’s important to consult a vet to rule out serious health problems.

4. Abdominal Pain or Bloating

If your dog appears to be in pain when you touch their belly, or if they are bloated, this could signal a serious gastrointestinal issue such as bloat, which is a life-threatening condition that requires emergency care.

What Home Remedies Can Help a Nauseous Dog?

For mild cases of nausea, there are several safe and simple remedies you can try at home to help your dog feel better.

1. Withhold Food Temporarily

If your dog is nauseous, it’s often a good idea to withhold food for 12-24 hours to give their stomach a chance to settle. Make sure they have access to fresh water during this time to prevent dehydration.

2. Offer Bland Foods

Once the fasting period is over, you can offer your dog small amounts of bland food like boiled chicken and plain rice. This is easier on the stomach and can help ease nausea.

3. Use Ginger

Ginger is a natural remedy known for its anti-nausea properties. You can give your dog a small amount of ginger in their food (about ¼ teaspoon for small dogs and up to 1 teaspoon for larger dogs). Be sure to consult your vet first.

4. Peppermint Tea

Peppermint can help soothe your dog’s stomach. Try offering cooled peppermint tea in small amounts or soaking it in their food. It can be a calming remedy for mild nausea.

5. Small, Frequent Meals

If your dog tends to get nauseous frequently, offering smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can help keep their stomach settled and reduce nausea.

Are There Any Over-the-Counter Medications Safe for Dogs with Nausea?

There are some over-the-counter medications that can help manage nausea in dogs, but you should always consult your vet before giving any medication to your pet.

• Pepto-Bismol can sometimes be used for dogs experiencing mild nausea or diarrhea, but it’s important to get your vet’s approval and the correct dosage.
• Famotidine (Pepcid) is another OTC option that can reduce stomach acid and may help with nausea in some cases, but again, always consult your vet first.

How Do Veterinarians Diagnose the Cause of Nausea in Dogs?

When you take your dog to the vet for nausea, the diagnostic process will likely involve a combination of physical exams, medical history, and tests. Your vet might:

• Perform blood tests to check for infections or organ function.
• Conduct X-rays or ultrasounds to rule out blockages, tumors, or other gastrointestinal problems.
• Evaluate your dog’s diet and medication history to identify potential triggers.

What Prescription Medications Are Used to Treat Canine Nausea?

In more severe or chronic cases of nausea, your vet may prescribe medication to help manage the symptoms. Common anti-nausea medications for dogs include:

• Cerenia (Maropitant): This is a popular prescription medication specifically designed to treat vomiting and nausea in dogs.
• Metoclopramide: Often used to improve stomach motility and prevent vomiting.
• Ondansetron: A human anti-nausea drug sometimes used in dogs with severe nausea or vomiting.

Can Diet Changes Help Prevent or Manage Nausea in Dogs?

Diet plays a significant role in managing nausea, especially for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Consider the following dietary strategies:

• Switch to a high-quality, easily digestible food: Some dogs benefit from a diet designed for sensitive stomachs or gastrointestinal health.
• Avoid fatty foods: High-fat foods can trigger nausea or digestive upset in some dogs.
• Gradual dietary transitions: If you’re changing your dog’s food, do it slowly by mixing the new food with the old food over several days to a week.

How Can I Prevent Motion Sickness in My Dog?

If your dog suffers from motion sickness, here are some tips to make travel more comfortable:

• Acclimate them to the car: Take short, positive trips to help your dog get used to the motion of the vehicle.
• Keep the car cool and ventilated: A hot, stuffy car can worsen motion sickness, so ensure there’s plenty of fresh air.
• Limit food before travel: Avoid feeding your dog a large meal right before a car trip.
• Use a travel crate: Some dogs feel more secure and less nauseous when confined to a crate during travel.

What’s the Difference Between Nausea, Vomiting, and Regurgitation in Dogs?

It’s essential to differentiate between nausea, vomiting, and regurgitation, as they indicate different issues:

• Nausea is the sensation of an upset stomach and may or may not result in vomiting.
• Vomiting is the forceful ejection of stomach contents, often preceded by nausea.
• Regurgitation is the passive return of undigested food from the esophagus without retching or abdominal effort.

By understanding these distinctions, you can better communicate your dog’s symptoms to your vet and get the appropriate care.

Conclusion

Recognizing and managing nausea in dogs requires a good understanding of the common causes, symptoms, and treatments. Whether it’s due to motion sickness, diet, or an underlying health issue, keeping an eye on your dog’s behavior and knowing when to act can help alleviate their discomfort. With proper care, your dog will be back to their happy, tail-wagging self in no time!

Sources and References

• Mitchell, Sandra. “Nausea in Dogs.” Www.petmd.com, 31 Mar. 2023, www.petmd.com/dog/symptoms/nausea-dogs.
• Mar 28, Anna Burke, et al. “Dog Vomiting: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment.” American Kennel Club, 13 July 2023, www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-vomiting-causes-diagnosis-and-treatment/.