Acute Gastritis

                        ---------------

                      General Information



Acute gastritis is rapid onset of inflammation of the stomach.  A

common cause is eating spoiled food, garbage, dead fish or

animals, bones, plastic, wood, chemicals, drugs or toxic

plants.  Vomited material may sometimes reveal what the animal

ate, but often the offending material is never isolated.  Other

causes of acute gastritis include viral or bacterial infections.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Hospitalization may be necessary in severe cases.



2.  Whenever possible, prevent your pet's access to the

    offending material.



3.  Water:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____No restriction in water intake is necessary.  Allow free

    access.



    ____Withhold water for ____ hours.  Ice cubes may be

    substituted for water unless further vomiting occurs. 



    ____After the restriction period, re-introduce water by

    giving ____ cups every _______ hours. 



4.  Diet:  Diet plays a crucial role in the treatment of acute

    gastritis.  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Withhold food for ____ hours.



    ____After the withholding period, feed as follows:





5.  Medication:  All medication must be given as directed.

    Please call the doctor if you cannot give the medication as

    prescribed.



       Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Vomiting or other signs of illness continue or recur.



    * Blood appears in the vomit.



    * Your pet vomits its medication or refuses to eat.



    * Your pet appears restless, in pain or bloated.