What are the common early signs of splenic torsion?

Common early signs include reduced appetite, repeated vomiting, lethargy, and decreased activity. Some pets also show abdominal tenderness or an elevated heart rate. Seek veterinary care promptly if symptoms change suddenly.

Why does the vet recommend an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan?

Ultrasound and CT scans allow the vet to assess the position, size, and blood flow of the spleen, helping to confirm whether torsion or concurrent haemorrhage is present. These are key investigations for guiding treatment decisions.

If the vet recommends surgery, what should I watch for post-operatively?

After surgery, restrict your pet's activity, administer all medications as instructed, attend scheduled follow-up appointments for blood work and imaging, and monitor the wound for redness, swelling, or discharge. Contact your vet if you have any concerns.

What can I observe at home to help the vet assess my pet?

Record your pet's appetite, how often they vomit, and any weight changes. Take videos of their movement or abdomen at rest and during activity. This information helps the vet quickly understand the condition and plan the right tests.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Splenic Torsion in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Surgical Care [2025]

Splenic torsion is a surgical emergency requiring prompt splenectomy

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/06

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: AVMA, AAHA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Requires immediate veterinary care (emergency)

•Sudden collapse, unable to stand or walk on its own
•Persistent severe abdominal pain and inability to move normally
•Pale or bluish gums with markedly rapid breathing

Recommend scheduling a clinic visit soon (within 24-72 hours)

•Markedly reduced appetite lasting more than a day
•Repeated vomiting or inability to eat for more than a day
•Obvious abdominal pain with continuously declining activity

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

Splenic torsion commonly causes obstructed blood flow and abdominal discomfort. Clinical signs are often non-specific and may include reduced appetite, vomiting, abdominal pain, and circulatory instability.

Markedly reduced appetite or persistent refusal to eat
Repeated vomiting or inability to eat normally
Rapid weight loss or noticeable thinning over a short period
Elevated heart rate, laboured breathing, or abnormal body temperature
Lethargy and significantly reduced activity level
Flinching or showing pain when the abdomen is touched

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Collapse or sudden loss of consciousness — seek emergency care immediately
⚠️ Severe abdominal pain with inability to stand or walk normally
⚠️ Pale or purple gums, suggesting poor circulation or respiratory distress

02How to assess abnormalities at home: key observations and when to go to the emergency vet

Keeping a record of key changes at home helps your vet quickly understand the progression of illness and arrange the right tests.

Record changes in appetite, portion eaten at each meal, and when symptoms began
Note the frequency of vomiting, the appearance of vomit, and the times it occurred
Weigh your pet regularly and note when any weight changes were observed
Film the abdomen and your pet's movement, both at rest and when active
Observe and record the frequency and consistency of urination and bowel movements
If symptoms worsen or change rapidly, seek veterinary care without delay

03How will the vet make a diagnosis? Common diagnostic tests

On arrival, the vet will begin with a physical examination, then combine blood work, biochemistry panels, and imaging to assess the spleen and overall health.

Physical examination

abdominal palpation, pain assessment, and pulse evaluation

Complete blood count

evaluating red blood cells, platelets, and infection markers

Biochemistry panel

assessing liver and kidney function and metabolic markers

Urinalysis

evaluating kidney function and detecting metabolic abnormalities

Abdominal ultrasound

the preferred imaging tool to evaluate splenic position and blood flow

Advanced imaging (CT) or specialist ultrasound to confirm torsion and identify concurrent lesions

04Treatment and aftercare: medications, dietary adjustments, and care guidelines

Treatment typically involves acute stabilisation and surgical intervention; post-operative care requires follow-up check-ups and home nursing as directed by your vet.

Acute stabilisation may include intravenous support, fluid therapy, or blood transfusion to maintain vital signs
Surgical options and associated risks will be discussed based on your pet's condition
Administer medications as prescribed and restrict activity post-surgery to allow wound healing
Schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor blood work and imaging findings
Home care includes dietary management, wound cleaning, and monitoring for signs of infection
Referral to a specialist or veterinary teaching hospital may be recommended if further evaluation is needed

05What to prepare before your vet visit: key information to help your vet reach a diagnosis quickly

Note when symptoms first appeared and how they have changed each day

List your pet's food intake and vomiting episodes over the past 72 hours

Bring a list of all current medications and supplements

Take short videos or photos showing the abdomen and your pet's movement during activity and rest

Record urination and bowel movement times and consistency to share with the vet

Call ahead to book an appointment and describe symptoms so the clinic can prepare for the appropriate tests

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.