Tympany refers to the accumulation of gas in internal organs; accumulations of gas in the intestines are colloquially referred to as flatulence. Due to their special digestive system, guinea pigs are relatively prone to tympany, which can sometimes be life-threatening.
Compared to other animals or humans, the gastrointestinal tract of guinea pigs has only a very small proportion of smooth muscle. Food in the intestine is therefore not moved by peristalsis (the ring-shaped contraction of the smooth muscles in the intestine that moves food in one direction), but is mostly 'pushed' by newly ingested food. A short-term reduction in food intake can therefore lead to significant digestive problems.
The triggers for intestinal tympany therefore include persistent loss of appetite, infections of the gastrointestinal tract, and feeding errors. In particular, the still popular feeding of carbohydrate-rich dry feed slows down digestion as it quickly makes the animal feel full. The food swells and remains in the stomach or intestine for too long. The result is a shift in the natural intestinal flora, leading to excessive proliferation of gas-forming bacteria and thus to fermentation.
Since puppies cannot burp, large amounts of gas accumulate in the stomach and intestines. As the gas expands, it puts increased pressure on the diaphragm, significantly impairing the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
The animals usually catch their owners' attention due to a distended, bloated belly and general malaise. They show a lack of appetite, apathy and, in advanced stages, pale mucous membranes and significant breathing difficulties. Please consult a veterinarian immediately if you suspect tympania, as untreated tympania can quickly become life-threatening for your pet.
The veterinarian can usually make an initial diagnosis after a general examination and based on clinical findings. X-rays can be used to determine the exact location and extent of the tympany. Stool and blood samples are examined in a laboratory to determine the exact cause of the disease.
In cases of severe circulatory impairment, the first priority is to stabilize the circulation and compensate for fluid loss. This is achieved by administering electrolyte infusions and medications that stabilize the circulation.
In cases of severe bloating, it may be necessary for the veterinarian to degas the intestine from the outside by puncturing it with a fine cannula. Medications are also prescribed to stabilize the intestinal flora and neutralize the gas. In cases of severe tympany, the veterinarian will usually also administer an antibiotic to curb the spread of disease-causing germs and thus reduce the risk of endotoxemia (poisoning caused by the breakdown of bacteria).
Affected animals must be temporarily force-fed. The healing process can be supported by accompanying abdominal massages.
In cases of severe tympanitis with pronounced circulatory impairment, only a cautious prognosis can be made. For mild tympanitis without complications that is treated by a veterinarian in good time, the prognosis is significantly better.
Feeding guinea pigs a species-appropriate diet rich in raw fiber but low in carbohydrates is one of the most important measures for preventing tympany. Fresh green fodder is best suited for this purpose and should be made available to the animal in unlimited quantities. Any type of ready-made feed should only be given in very small quantities or not at all.
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Pigs are sociable animals that can become very attached to humans. With sufficient space and a love for these intelligent creatures, living together can be a great joy. However, anyone considering keeping a mini pig like a cat or dog, i.e. in their home, should first read up extensively on the subject and study the needs of a small pig. These are no different from those of large pigs. Mini pigs are sometimes called "teacup pigs" because a piglet is so small right after birth that it fits in a teacup. But mini pigs grow naturally and quickly gain weight. To keep them happy, a mini pig needs enough space and an outdoor enclosure.
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This chronic inflammatory bowel disease occurs in dogs and cats, with a genetic predisposition suspected in certain dog breeds (boxers, German shepherds). IBD is triggered by an excessive reaction of the immune system, can affect both the small and large intestines, and is incurable.
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Computed tomography is an imaging technique that is an important diagnostic tool in many modern veterinary practices due to its speed and simplicity, as well as the high diagnostic value of the images it produces.
Summer, sun, sunshine – for many, it's the best time of year. However, even in our latitudes, temperatures are increasingly reaching tropical levels. And with them come annoying insects. The following tips will make life easier for your horse in summer.
Dirofilaria are long threadworms whose larvae are transmitted by various species of mosquitoes. Depending on the species, they colonize either the skin or the large blood vessels of the lungs, and in severe cases, the heart. This is why they are known as heartworms. Dirofilaria and the mosquitoes that transmit them are mainly found in the Mediterranean region, Eastern Europe, and North America. The disease is brought to Germany by travelers and through the importation of dogs from abroad. Due to the climate-related spread of mosquitoes to the north, it is becoming increasingly important.
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