Why Maltese Dogs Are Prone to Gastrointestinal Problems

The charming Maltese is one of the UK's most beloved small breeds, admired for its delightful personality and affectionate nature. Despite being generally healthy, Maltese dogs have a tendency to suffer from gastrointestinal problems more than many other breeds. Understanding these issues and how to manage them helps owners provide the best care for their pets.

Understanding Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in Maltese

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a significant cause of gastrointestinal distress in Maltese dogs. Although its exact cause remains uncertain, factors like genetics, immune system irregularities, and diet may contribute. IBD is characterised by chronic inflammation in the intestines, affecting a dog’s digestive function.

Symptoms of IBD

• Intermittent vomiting
• Diarrhoea, often with mucus or blood
• Weight loss and poor body condition
• Loss of appetite and lethargy in severe cases

Symptoms often fluctuate, with periods of discomfort followed by apparent recovery. Prompt veterinary assessment is essential to confirm diagnosis and rule out other causes.

How IBD is Diagnosed

Veterinarians diagnose IBD via biopsies of the intestinal tissue, collected through endoscopy or surgery. This helps exclude infections, food sensitivities, lymphoma, or parasites as causes.

Treatment and Management

Managing IBD focuses on reducing intestinal inflammation and supporting the immune system. Vets usually recommend a diet low in fat and gluten, avoiding wheat, oats, rye, and barley. While some owners opt for homemade diets, commercial diets specifically formulated for sensitive digestion are more balanced and effective.

Ongoing vet monitoring and patient dedication from owners are critical, as IBD is a lifelong condition requiring adjustments and care.

Glycogen Storage Disease (GSD): A Metabolic Challenge

Glycogen Storage Disease (GSD) is a rare inherited metabolic disorder that affects the Maltese breed. It impairs the proper conversion of glucose stored in the liver into usable energy due to enzyme deficiencies.

Puppies with GSD often show symptoms resembling Fading Puppy Syndrome, including poor growth, inability to nurse, distended abdomen from an enlarged liver, low blood sugar, and high cholesterol levels.

A DNA cheek swab test can identify carriers of the mutated gene, which is vital for breeders to prevent the condition passing to puppies. Sadly, puppies affected by GSD have a poor prognosis and usually do not survive.

Portosystemic Vascular Anomalies (PSVA) and Microvascular Dysplasia (MVD)

This inherited liver disorder, often called a liver shunt, causes blood to bypass the liver, limiting its ability to remove toxins and regulate digestion properly. It's common in Maltese and other terrier breeds like Yorkshire and Cairn Terriers.

Signs to Watch For

• Slow growth and being the runt of the litter
• Digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhoea, and vomiting
• Neurological symptoms including head pressing, aggression, circling, blindness, seizures, and lethargy
• Increased thirst and frequent urination

Symptoms usually appear young but can develop later or remain subtle in some dogs.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Blood tests can detect liver dysfunction markers such as low blood urea nitrogen, elevated liver enzymes, and low protein levels. Treatment options depend on the severity and may include surgery, specific medications, and specialised diets.

Microvascular Dysplasia (MVD)

MVD is a microscopic form of liver shunt more common in Maltese than PSVA. Many affected dogs remain asymptomatic and live normal lives without treatment.

Preventive Care and Responsible Ownership

Owners of Maltese dogs should focus on:

• Feeding a balanced, low-fat diet tailored to sensitive digestion
• Introducing dietary changes gradually over 1-2 weeks
• Keeping up with regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and parasite control
• Monitoring for any signs of digestive or neurological issues and seeking prompt vet advice
• Choosing reputable breeders who perform genetic testing for conditions like GSD

These measures promote early detection and reduce the risk of severe health complications, supporting a happy, fulfilling life for your furry companion.

Summary

Maltese dogs are prone to gastrointestinal problems due to a combination of breed-specific genetic conditions and sensitivities. Key concerns include Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Glycogen Storage Disease, and Portosystemic Vascular Anomalies. Understanding these helps owners offer compassionate care and make informed decisions for health maintenance. Regular vet visits and careful diet management are vital in preventing and managing these issues to ensure your Maltese remains a cherished family member for years to come.