"Ralphy" in his feeding chair
Regurgitation is the passive process of bringing up contents from the mouth, pharynx, or esophagus. It will often occur just like a simple burp or urp with no forewarning. In contrast, Vomiting is the forceful and active process of bringing up contents from the stomach and upper intestine. The most notable signs of vomiting are drooling and heaving.
It is of utmost importance that the veterinarian distinguishes between the two as the differential diagnoses are vastly different. This blog will focus on regurgitation.
The most common cause of regurgitation is Megaesophagus. Esophageal Strictures, sliding Hiatal Hernias, and Esophageal Tumors may also cause regurgitation. Megaesophagus can be congenital or it can be as a result of Myasthenia Gravis, Addison's disease and possibly even Hypothyroidism.
Ralphy presented to our hospital with a complaint of regurgitation. He was tested for megaesophagus by X-ray and barium swallow and the results were inconclusive. However, we treated him as such and he responded. (Below is an image of a dogs chest with a megaesophagus.)
Part of the therapy for megaesophagus is to feed your pet upright so gravity helps keep the food down. His owner was dedicated enough to have a feeding chair built for him. As you can see he tolerated it very well!!! (Watch the video above)
Ultimately it turns out that Ralphy most likely had an esophageal stricture secondary to esophagitis that caused his regurgitation. He no longer needs his feeding chair and is a happy boy!!
Dr. Kim Simons
West Boca Veterinary Center
www.westbocavet.com
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