The Scoop on Dog Diarrhoea: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
As pet parents, we all want our furry friends to be happy and healthy, but sometimes unexpected illnesses may occur. One of the most common problems that dogs face is diarrhoea, which can be a frustrating and messy issue for both the owner and the dog. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options of dog diarrhoea and how to prevent it from happening.
Causes of Dog Diarrhoea
There are several reasons why your dog may experience diarrhoea, including:
1. Change in Diet: Dogs are creatures of habit, and sudden changes in their diets can result in diarrhoea. Switching from one brand of dog food to another or feeding table scraps can upset your dog’s stomach.
2. Food Intolerance: Some dogs may have an allergy or intolerance to certain foods, which can cause diarrhoea. Common culprits include dairy products, certain meat proteins, and wheat.
3. Parasites: Parasites such as Giardia, worms, or Coccidia can cause diarrhoea in dogs. These parasites often enter the dog’s system from contaminated water or indirect contact with other animals.
4. Infection: Infection by a bacteria or virus can lead to diarrhoea. Salmonella, E. coli, and Parvovirus are examples of common infections that cause diarrhoea in dogs.
5. Medications: Certain medicines can also cause diarrhoea as a side effect. Antibiotics, for instance, can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria and lead to diarrhoea.
Symptoms of Dog Diarrhoea
Diarrhoea in dogs can be identified by certain symptoms. These include:
1. Loose or watery stools: This is the most common symptom of diarrhoea in dogs.
2. Blood or mucus in stools: If your dog’s stool contains blood or mucus, it indicates a more severe condition.
3. Vomiting: Your dog may vomit along with experiencing diarrhoea.
4. Loss of appetite: Dogs with diarrhoea may refuse to eat their regular food, but it is crucial to keep them hydrated.
5. Lethargy: Your dog may appear tired and inactive.
Treatment Options for Dog Diarrhoea
When your dog is experiencing diarrhoea, the most crucial thing to do is to keep them hydrated. Diarrhoea can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, which is very dangerous for the dog. Here are some treatment options for dog diarrhoea:
1. Fluids: Ensure that your dog has plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Encourage them to drink more water than usual, and you can also try giving them broth or diluted Pedialyte.
2. Dietary changes: As mentioned earlier, a change in diet can cause diarrhoea. However, in some cases, a change in diet can help improve the condition. You can feed your dog a bland diet consisting of boiled white rice and boiled chicken or lean ground beef.
3. Medications: Certain medications such as Metronidazole, Panacur, or Albon are used to treat diarrhoea in dogs. However, only give medications recommended by your veterinarian.
4. Home Remedies: You can try giving your dog probiotics as they are an excellent way to restore gut bacteria that are disrupted during diarrhoea. Pumpkin is another great home remedy to soothe your dog’s upset stomach.
5. Seek Veterinary Care: If your dog’s condition does not improve or they display severe symptoms such as dehydration, lethargy, blood in stool, or vomiting, seek the help of a veterinarian.
Prevention of Dog Diarrhoea
Dog diarrhoea can be prevented by following these precautions:
1. Diet: Ensure that your pet’s diet is consistent and avoid sudden changes. Feed your dog high-quality dog food that is free from any potential allergens.
2. Hygiene: Maintaining proper hygiene is essential to prevent your dog from getting infected by bacteria or viruses that cause diarrhoea. Clean your dog’s food and water bowls, and ensure they have access to clean drinking water.
3. Avoidance: Avoid exposing your dog to contaminated water sources, and keep them away from other animals that may be carrying infections or parasites.
4. Regular Check-ups: Regular visits to the veterinarian can help monitor your dog’s health and identify any potential issues that may lead to diarrhoea.
FAQs
1. How long does a dog’s diarrhoea last?
The duration of diarrhoea in dogs depends on the underlying cause. Mild cases of diarrhoea may last two to three days, while severe cases can take up to a week or even longer to resolve.
2. Is dog diarrhoea contagious?
If the cause of diarrhoea is a virus, bacteria, or parasite, it can be contagious to other dogs.
3. Can I feed my dog during diarrhoea?
Feeding your dog is essential during diarrhoea, but ensure you feed a bland diet consisting of boiled chicken, white rice, or boiled ground beef. Avoid feeding your dog scraps or table food during this time.
4. When should I seek veterinary care for my dog’s diarrhoea?
If your dog’s diarrhoea lasts longer than two to three days, they display severe symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, or blood in the stool, seek veterinary care immediately.
Conclusion
Diarrhoea in dogs is a common problem that can be easily prevented and treated. It is crucial to maintain proper hygiene, a consistent diet, and regular veterinary check-ups to prevent your dog from experiencing diarrhoea. If diarrhoea does occur, the most crucial step is to keep your pet hydrated while following the recommended treatment by your veterinarian. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your furry friend remains healthy, happy, and free from diarrhoea.
