If your pet is having an episode of diarrhea, chances are you are feeling anxious and irritated. After all, no person wants their precious furry friend to feel uncomfortable. However, there is no need to fret. Diarrhea is not always a cause for a serious problem; it is common in cats and dogs, and there are numerous reasons that it might occur in the first place.
What are the causes of diarrhea in pets?
Looseness of the bowels can be very uncomfortable and caused by several things. Digestive 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 intense diarrhea, physical blockages due to foreign objects or lumps, toxins, and certain medications 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 feces, this is the primary symptom you need to check. On top of that, look for other associated indicators such as throwing up, sleepiness, lack of appetite, 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 in at an animal facility. Animal hospitals can help provide more information, further assessments, and guidance on treating your pet’s ailment effectively.
How is diarrhea treated in pets?
Your vet will consider the pet’s medical history, including any pet vaccinations they may have, and assess the severity of their symptoms before suggesting treatment. Depending on the reason, vets could recommend dietary changes or supplements that promote digestive health.
Veterinarians may prescribe antibiotics or anti-inflammatories to help clear up diarrhea quickly if needed. Surgery is often necessary to treat more severe complications that can not be treated just through medication. On the other hand, to protect your pet from diseases like diarrhea, TLC Animal Clinic vaccinations for cats and dogs may be something you should look into.
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 veterinarian. If your pet’s symptoms last longer than 24 hours or seem specifically distressed, take them to a vet immediately. Moreover, watch out for indications of dehydration, including fatigue, dry tongue/gums, and lethargy which can adversely impact 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 lots of water, keeping up with regular cat and dog wellness examinations can help prevent your pet from getting diarrhea. Doing so will enable you to identify any possible problems early on and create a proactive strategy – rather than a reactive one – to meet your pet’s needs.
Also, make sure not to overfeed treats to minimize indigestion, which can result in diarrhea. Meanwhile, a quick web search for “the best vet for routine exams near me” should turn up reputable veterinary clinics in your area that provide preventive care for diarrhea and other ailments.
Conclusion
Like us, our pets can get diarrhea for a whole bunch of reasons – some severe and some not a lot. However, it is essential to recognize the indication so you can take action fast if something is not quite right.
With proper diet management and regular checkups with your veterinarian, there is no reason that your furry buddy will not stay healthy. If you are ever worried about your pet’s health, do not hesitate to call your local animal clinic today.
