Diarrhea is one of the most common reasons pets are brought to Village Animal Hospital, and while some cases are mild and temporary, others may signal a more serious concern. Knowing when to monitor at home and when to call your veterinarian can make a big difference in your pet’s recovery and comfort.
Levels of Concern
Diarrhea can appear in several forms, and each one tells us something different about your pet’s health.
- Soft stool
- Usually mild and may resolve with simple home care.
- Liquid stool
- More concerning and should be watched closely.
- Liquid stool with blood
- A sign of irritation or inflammation that should be evaluated soon.
- Very dark, tarry stool or stool that resembles coffee grounds
- Possible internal bleeding. This is an emergency and needs immediate care.
The duration matters as well. If diarrhea continues for more than two days, or if it appears alongside vomiting, lethargy, or appetite changes, your pet should be seen promptly.
Why Diarrhea Matters
Even mild diarrhea can cause problems if not addressed early. Pets can quickly develop dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, nausea, or significant fatigue. Senior pets, small breeds, and animals with underlying health issues are especially vulnerable.
Common Causes
There are many reasons a pet may develop diarrhea. Some of the most common include:
- Dietary indiscretion such as getting into the trash or eating table scraps
- Toxin ingestion
- A sudden diet change
- Stress or anxiety
- Food allergies or intolerances
- Intestinal parasites such as giardia or roundworms
- Medical conditions including pancreatitis or endocrine disease
Your veterinarian may recommend diagnostic testing to help identify the cause. This may include abdominal X rays, blood work, or fecal testing.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause.
Mild to moderate cases
These often respond well to early intervention, including:
- Deworming medication
- A bland diet that is easy to digest
- Probiotics to restore healthy gut bacteria
- Pet specific anti diarrhea medications
More advanced or persistent cases
Pets who are more ill may require:
- GI supportive antibiotics
- Fluid therapy
- Medications for nausea or vomiting
- Appetite stimulants
- Medications that soothe or protect the GI tract
Home Care Tips to Support Digestive Health
Transition diets slowly
Switching foods too quickly can cause stomach upset. Introduce new diets gradually over one week.
Feed high quality, veterinary recommended diets
Brands formulated by veterinary nutritionists such as Purina Pro Plan, Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Eukanuba are balanced and gentle on the digestive system.
Avoid table scraps
Rich meats, dairy, and other people foods can trigger significant GI upset and may even be toxic.
Avoid human medications
Over the counter medications like Pepto Bismol and Imodium are not safe for all pets and may interfere with other medications. Always speak with your veterinarian before giving anything at home.
When in Doubt, Contact Us
Diarrhea can be uncomfortable and potentially dangerous if it progresses. Early evaluation is the best way to keep your pet safe and help them recover quickly.
If your pet is experiencing diarrhea or you are unsure how concerned to be, Village Animal Hospital is here to help. Call us or request an appointment online today.
