Canine Peritonitis in 2025: Vet-Backed Guide ⚠️🐶

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

📌 What Is Canine Peritonitis?

Peritonitis is inflammation of the peritoneum—the membrane lining your dog’s abdomen and organs. It can be septic (infected) or non‑septic, and is a serious, often life‑threatening condition.

🔍 Causes: How It Develops

Secondary to GI perforation from foreign bodies, ulcers, or tumors
Ruptured bladder, gallbladder/bile duct, uterus (e.g., pyometra)
Post‑surgical leakage or abdominal wounds
Primary peritonitis—rare, via bloodstream infections

👀 Signs & Symptoms

Abdominal pain, distention, “praying position”
Fever or hypothermia, lethargy, anorexia
Vomiting, diarrhea, black tarry stools
Rapid heart/breathing rate, low blood pressure, shock

🩺 Diagnosis & Testing

Early diagnosis saves lives. Your vet may use:

Physical exam with abdominal palpation
Abdominal ultrasound and X‑rays to detect fluid
Abdominocentesis or peritoneal lavage for fluid analysis—cell counts, bacteria
Bloodwork to detect systemic infection or organ impact
CT scan or exploratory surgery in unclear cases

🛠️ Treatment Options

Emergency surgery to repair perforations, remove infected tissue, and flush the abdomen
Intravenous shock‑dose fluids and electrolyte support
Broad‑spectrum antibiotics targeted by culture
Pain management and anti‑inflammatories
Post‑op care: drains, intensive monitoring, nutrition

⚠️ Why Speed Matters

Septic peritonitis progresses rapidly, often causing sepsis and organ failure. Surgical intervention within 24 hours improves survival rates, varying from ~36–85%, average of ~50%.

📈 Prognosis & Recovery

Early cases with prompt treatment have fair outcomes. Mortality remains high in delayed or complicated cases (20–50%).

Recovery includes hospitalization, IV fluids, antibiotics, and close monitoring. Long-term follow-up for complications may be required.

🛡️ Prevention Tips

Prevent ingestion of foreign bodies
Promptly fix GI perforations and leaks
Spay before pyometra risk (uterine rupture)
Careful post‑surgery monitoring for signs of leakage

📞 When to Call Your Vet NOW

Sudden abdominal pain, distention, or “praying posture”
Persistent vomiting, fever, or coldness, or collapse
Signs of shock: rapid heart/breathing rate, pale gums

Peritonitis is a medical emergency—early veterinary care can save your dog's life. For rapid guidance, contact a vet via the Ask A Vet app 📱.

Written by Dr Duncan Houston BVSc. For 24/7 expert pet care, visit AskAVet.com or download the Ask A Vet app—because every pup deserves prompt, life-saving care. 🩺❤️