If your pet is having an episode of diarrhea, chances are you are feeling anxious and frustrated. After all, no person wants their beloved furry friend to feel uncomfortable. However, there is no need to worry. Diarrhea is not always a cause for a significant problem; it is common in cats and dogs, and there are plenty of reasons that it might happen in the first place.
What are the causes of diarrhea in pets?
Diarrhea in pets can be highly uncomfortable and caused by various things. Gastrointestinal issues such as irritable bowel syndrome, food allergies, or infections can trigger pets to experience diarrhea. Parasites like heartworm, roundworm, and hookworms are all primary causes of this intestinal condition.
In addition to these more traditional issues that may lead to acute diarrhea, physical blockages due to foreign objects or tumors, toxins, and certain drugs can also aggravate your pet’s digestive system enough to induce episodes of the ailment.
What are the symptoms of diarrhea in pets?
If your pet has frequent loose or watery stools, this is the main symptom you need to look out for. Additionally, look for other associated indicators such as throwing up, sleepiness, lack of desire for food, abdominal discomfort and cramps, weight loss, and dehydration.
Whenever your pet experiences any combination of those signs and diarrhea, it is important to take them into a Chino Hills animal hospital because they can help provide further assessments and guidance on how to treat your pet’s ailment properly.
How is diarrhea treated in pets?
Your veterinarian will take into account the pet’s medical history, including any pet vaccinations they may have, and analyze the extent of their symptoms before suggesting treatment. Depending on the cause, vets could suggest dietary changes or supplements that promote digestive health.
If needed, veterinarians may prescribe antibiotics or anti-inflammatories to help clear up diarrhea quickly. Surgery is sometimes required to treat more severe complications that can not be treated just through medication. See this page for more information.
When should you take your pet to the vet for diarrhea treatment?
Any prolonged or severe diarrhea symptoms must be taken seriously when treating your pet to the vet. If your pet’s symptoms last longer than 24 hours or seem particularly distressed, take them to a vet immediately. Moreover, watch out for indications of dehydration, including exhaustion, dry tongue/gums, and lethargy which can negatively affect their health and require immediate treatment and diagnosis.
How can you prevent your pet from getting diarrhea in the first place?
In addition to giving your pet a healthy and well-balanced diet plan and plenty of water, keeping up with routine cat and dog wellness exams can help prevent your pet from getting diarrhea. Doing so will make it possible for you to identify any potential problems beforehand and put together a proactive strategy – rather than a reactive one – to meet your pet’s demands.
Also, ensure not to overfeed treats to minimize digestive upset, which can lead to diarrhea. Visit websites like https://www.tlcanimalclinic.com/site/veterinary-services-chino-hills/cat-dog-routine-exams to find out why it’s crucial to have your pet undergo regular checkups to prevent conditions like diarrhea.
Conclusion
Like us, our pets can get diarrhea for a whole bunch of reasons – some serious and some not so much. However, it is essential to recognize the warning signs so you can take action fast if something is not quite right.
With proper diet management and regular check-ups with your vet, there is no reason why your furry buddy will not stay in good shape. If you are ever worried about your pet’s health, do not hesitate to call your local animal clinic today.
