What are the Causes of Swelling in Dogs?
Allergic Reaction is one of the most common causes of swelling in dogs. If your dog comes into contact with something its body doesn't agree with, one of the ways its body might respond is by showing signs of swelling. Allergies occur when your pet reacts to a protein in the environment around them.
Causes of allergic reactions include:
- Insect or spider bites
- Food or certain liquids
- Dust
- Medication
- Fungus or spores
- Certain materials and food preservatives
Abscesses could be responsible for swelling around the mouth. If a tooth becomes infected, the resulting abscess can cause your dog's face to swell up. Your dog might also develop abscesses on his skin as the result of an infection. This can also cause localized swelling around the infected area.
Cancer can develop into a lump. The disease is caused by mutated cells. These cells often form a cancerous swelling which looks like a lump.
Muscle Inflammation cause a dog to swell up. Although muscle inflammation is treatable it is important to find the root cause of the condition.
Abdominal Problems - If your dog has abdominal swelling, it is important to see a vet as soon as possible. While abdominal swelling isn't always a sign of serious problems, it can be an indication that something is wrong.
What Are the Treatments For Swelling in Dogs?
The kind of treatment your dog will receive for his swelling will depend on the cause of the problem. For minor infections, a course of antibiotics will usually be prescribed. More serious conditions may require surgery. Vets may also sometimes prescribe anti-histamines. Drugs such as Benadryl can be taken by both humans and animals although the dosages are very different so it is important to consult your vet before giving your dog any medication.
What Should I Do if I Spot Swelling on My Dog?
Swelling can be a symptom of both minor and serious problems. It might be very difficult to tell what the initial cause is so it is always best to seek the advice of a vet before taking action. It is a sign that something abnormal is going on in your dog's body. Even if your dog seems to be well, it is a good idea to make sure there are no underlying causes that could damage your dog's health.