Symptom: Swollen Stomach – When Should I Contact a Vet?
A swollen abdomen may develop gradually over weeks or months, or it can appear suddenly. A rapidly swollen abdomen, especially if your pet is distressed, retching or struggling to breathe, is a veterinary emergency and requires immediate attention.
Common signs include:
A swollen, enlarged or bloated belly
A firm, tight or painful abdomen
Restlessness or difficulty getting comfortable
Retching or vomiting
Rapid or difficult breathing
'My pet's stomach is swollen' - Frequently asked questions
What are the common reasons that my pet's stomach is swollen?
- Bloat (gastric dilatation and volvulus or GDV): a life-threatening condition, mainly in dogs, where the stomach fills with gas and may twist.
- Fluid in the abdomen (ascites): fluid can build up due to heart disease, liver disease, certain cancers or other underlying conditions.
- Internal bleeding: bleeding into the abdomen, often caused by trauma or a ruptured tumour, can cause sudden swelling and collapse.
- Pregnancy, obesity or constipation: these can all cause a gradual increase in abdominal size.
- Other abdominal diseases: enlarged organs, tumours and other conditions affecting the abdomen can cause swelling.
DOs - My pet's stomach is swollen, what to do at home:
- If your pet's abdomen becomes suddenly swollen, or they are retching, distressed or struggling to breathe, contact your vet immediately.
- Keep your pet as calm and quiet as possible and avoid strenuous activity.
- Monitor your pet closely for worsening signs such as a rapidly enlarging abdomen, collapse or pale gums.
- Arrange a prompt examination by your vet, even if the swelling develops gradually or your pet otherwise seems well.
DON'Ts - My pet's stomach is swollen, what not to do at home:
- Don't press on or squeeze your pet's abdomen, as this may cause pain or worsen an underlying injury.
- Don't encourage your pet to exercise or go for a walk if they have a swollen abdomen and seem uncomfortable.
- Don't wait to see if the swelling goes away on its own if your pet seems unwell or the abdomen has enlarged suddenly.
- Don't delay contacting your vet if your pet's abdomen suddenly becomes swollen or they develop other signs of illness.
My pet's stomach is swollen - when is it an emergency?
Seek immediate veterinary attention if your pet:
- Develops a suddenly swollen or rapidly enlarging abdomen.
- Is repeatedly retching or trying to vomit without bringing anything up.
- Has a swollen abdomen together with difficulty breathing.
- Collapses, becomes weak, or has pale gums.
- Has a painful abdomen or cries out when their abdomen is touched.
Even if the swelling develops gradually and your pet otherwise seems well, it should still be assessed by your vet, as it may be caused by an underlying medical condition.
Written by Gill Burkhill, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published July 2026 | Review date July 2029 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet