Coma in Dogs

Coma can be caused by a variety of problems, from extreme temperatures to adverse reactions to medication. It is commonly seen in diabetic dogs in which the blood sugar has not been regulated.

What To Watch For

If your dog looks like he’s sleeping but does not respond to pain or stimulus, he may be comatose.

Primary Cause

Diabetes, either because the glucose has been too low or high for some time, is the most common cause of coma in dogs. Other causes include extreme temperatures, poisons, bleeding tumors, torsion of the stomach, drugs, shock, and trauma.

Immediate Care

1. Make sure the dog is not suffocating by checking its airway for blocked objects.
2. Check the dog’s pulse and breathing.
3. If his breathing or heart has stopped, perform artificial respiration and/or CPR.
4. Call your veterinarian or an emergency hospital vet immediately.

Diagnosis

Your vet will perform the necessary tests to determine the underlying cause of the coma, including the presence of health conditions such as diabetes. He or she may ask you a series of questions and note any unusual changes your pet may have undergone at home. This is both helpful in diagnosing and treating the dog.