What are the symptoms of gastric ulcer?

Vomiting, sometimes with blood (red or like coffee grounds). Black, tarry stools (digested blood). Abdominal pain. Loss of appetite and weight. Lethargy, pale gums if there is significant bleeding

Is Gastric ulcer contagious?

Gastric ulcer does not spread directly between animals.

Digestivas

Gastric ulcer

A wound in the wall of the stomach. It can bleed and, in severe cases, perforate, which is a life-threatening emergency.

Severe🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

This may be a veterinary emergency

URGENT if there is vomiting with blood or black stools: these indicate digestive bleeding. Do not wait.

Symptoms to watch for

• Vomiting, sometimes with blood (red or like coffee grounds)
• Black, tarry stools (digested blood)
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite and weight
• Lethargy, pale gums if there is significant bleeding

Causes

Medications (misused anti-inflammatories are a common cause), serious illnesses (kidney, liver), tumours, intense physiological stress, ingestion of caustic substances.

Diagnosis

Blood tests, ultrasound and, above all, endoscopy, which allows the ulcer to be seen directly.

Treatment

Gastric protectants, acid-reducing medications, and treating the underlying cause. A perforated ulcer requires emergency surgery.

Prevention

NEVER give human anti-inflammatories to pets (ibuprofen and aspirin are a common cause of ulcers). Use only medication prescribed by the vet.

When should you see the vet?

URGENT if there is vomiting with blood or black stools: these indicate digestive bleeding. Do not wait.

Consult a vet 24 h emergency vets nearby

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.