Diarrhea in pets

Diarrhea in pets (dogs and cats) is a common clinical sign that can result from many underlying
causes. Here’s an overview:
Causes of Diarrhea in Pets
1. Dietary causes:
– Sudden diet changes
– Ingestion of spoiled food, garbage, or foreign objects
– Food allergies or intolerances
– Overeating or eating inappropriate items
2. Infectious causes:
– Bacterial infections (e.g., Salmonella, E. coli)
– Viral infections (e.g., parvovirus in dogs, feline coronavirus)
– Parasitic infections (worms, protozoa like Giardia or Coccidia)
– Fungal infections (less common)
3. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
4. Underlying systemic disease:
– Liver or kidney disease
– Pancreatitis
– Hyperthyroidism (cats)
– Endocrine disorders
5. Toxins and poisons:
– Ingestion of plants, chemicals, or toxins
6. Stress or anxiety
7. Neoplasia (cancer)
Signs and Associated Symptoms
– Loose, watery, or bloody stool
– Increased frequency of defecation
– Straining or difficulty defecating
– Vomiting
– Dehydration
– Lethargy
– Loss of appetite
– Weight loss

When to Seek Veterinary Care
– Diarrhea lasting more than 24-48 hours
– Presence of blood or black, tarry stool (digested blood)
– Severe dehydration or collapse
– Persistent vomiting or weakness
– Signs of pain or bloating
– Sudden weight loss or other systemic signs
Initial Management at Home
– Withhold food for 12-24 hours (but not water unless vomiting is severe)
– Offer small amounts of water or electrolyte solutions to prevent dehydration
– Gradually reintroduce a bland diet (e.g., boiled chicken and rice)
– Avoid giving human medications or over-the-counter remedies without veterinary guidance
Veterinary Diagnostic Approach
– Physical exam and history
– Fecal tests for parasites and pathogens
– Blood tests (CBC, chemistry) to assess organ function and systemic disease
– Imaging (X-rays, ultrasound) if bowel obstruction, masses, or other issues suspected
– Endoscopy or biopsy in chronic cases
Treatment
– Address underlying causes (antibiotics, antiparasitics, dietary modifications)
– Supportive care (fluids, anti-diarrheal medications, probiotics)
– Special diets for sensitive or inflammatory bowel disease
– Surgery if obstruction or mass present
Prevention**
– Feed a consistent, high-quality diet
– Avoid sudden diet changes
– Keep pets away from toxins and foreign objects
– Regular parasite control
– Prompt veterinary attention for recurrent or severe diarrhea