Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining. Acute cases begin suddenly, while chronic gastritis persists or returns and may reflect food, immune or systemic disease.

Home care

Use only the recommended diet and medicines and keep possible irritants out of reach. Do not give human pain relievers.

Prognosis

Acute uncomplicated gastritis often settles well, but chronic cases depend on identifying and controlling the underlying problem.

Summary

Gastritis describes inflamed stomach tissue rather than one cause. Recurrent “sensitive stomach” episodes deserve structured investigation.

Overview

Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining. Acute cases begin suddenly, while chronic gastritis persists or returns and may reflect food, immune or systemic disease.

Symptoms

Vomiting, nausea, drooling, reduced appetite, abdominal discomfort and occasionally blood or dark digested material may occur.

Causes

Spoiled food, foreign material, toxins, medicines, parasites and infection may cause acute inflammation; chronic disease has a broader range of triggers.

Risk Factors

Scavenging pets and animals using stomach-irritating medicines are at increased risk, while older pets warrant investigation for systemic disease or growths.

Diagnosis

The veterinarian assesses hydration and exposure history; blood tests, imaging, faecal tests or endoscopy with biopsy may be needed.

Treatment Options

Care may include fluids, anti-nausea medicine, stomach protection and a controlled diet while the initiating disease is treated.

Recovery

Acute uncomplicated gastritis often settles well, but chronic cases depend on identifying and controlling the underlying problem.

Prevention

Secure rubbish and toxins, change foods gradually and discuss medicine side effects before treatment begins.

When to Contact a Vet

Seek care for repeated vomiting, blood, black stool, pain, weakness, dehydration or possible toxin or foreign-object exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can gastritis cause blood in vomit?

Yes. Fresh streaks or darker material require veterinary advice because severity cannot be judged safely at home.

Is gastritis contagious?

The inflammation itself is not contagious, although an infectious cause could spread between animals.

Will a bland diet cure chronic gastritis?

Diet may reduce signs, but chronic inflammation often needs testing and cause-specific management.