How to Judge if a Dog has Ascites

1. Visual Observation: Usually, when a dog has ascites, there are not too many severe abnormal symptoms, and its diet is not greatly affected. The dog may even have a better appetite, but it won't gain weight, and instead, it will continue to lose weight and have visible ribs. In severe cases, there may even be jaundice. Therefore, owners can visually observe the sagging abdomen of the dog. If the dog only has a large belly but is thin elsewhere, it may have ascites.

2. Palpation: After a dog develops ascites, its belly is usually soft and has a palpable fluctuation. Therefore, owners can gently pat the dog's belly. If there is a strong sense of fluctuation and a sound like hitting a water ball, it may have ascites.

Note: If you suspect that your dog has ascites, take it to a pet hospital for inspection and treatment as soon as possible. If discovered early and treated promptly, there won't be any life-threatening risks. However, if it is discovered late and not treated in time, it can cause organ damage, and the dog will likely die within a month. Therefore, timely inspection and treatment are essential after discovering that a dog has ascites to avoid potential life-threatening risks.