Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a common condition in dogs that can have many different causes. In this article, you will learn what causes diarrhea in dogs, how to recognize it and what you can do about it.
What is diarrhea in dogs?
Diarrhea is a digestive disorder characterized by frequent, watery or mushy stools. Diarrhea can be acute or chronic. Acute diarrhea occurs suddenly and usually lasts only a few days. Chronic diarrhea lasts longer than two weeks and can be a sign of a serious illness.
What are the causes of diarrhea in dogs?
Diarrhea in dogs can have many different causes, ranging from harmless to life-threatening. The most common causes include
- Change of food or food intolerance
- Infections with bacteria, viruses or parasites
- Stress or anxiety
- Poisoning or allergies
- Medication or vaccinations
- Diseases of the pancreas, liver or kidneys
- Tumors or polyps in the intestines
How do I recognize diarrhoea in my dog?
Diarrhea in dogs is usually easy to recognize because the feces are liquid or mushy and are often passed several times a day. The feces may also contain blood, mucus or undigested food residue. Your dog may also show the following symptoms:
- Loss of appetite or increased thirst
- Vomiting or nausea
- Abdominal pain or cramps
- Weight loss or dehydration
- Fever or fatigue
- Itching or skin rash
How do I treat diarrhea in my dog?
The treatment of diarrhea in dogs depends on the cause and severity of the condition. In many cases, it is sufficient to give your dog a light diet that is easy to digest and soothes the intestines. For example, you can feed him boiled chicken with rice or potatoes. You should also make sure that your dog drinks enough water to make up for the loss of fluids.
If the diarrhea lasts longer than two days, contains blood in the feces or your dog shows other serious symptoms, you should definitely consult a vet. The vet can determine the exact cause of the diarrhea and prescribe medication if necessary, such as antibiotics, dewormers or probiotics.
How can I prevent diarrhea in my dog?
To prevent diarrhea in your dog, you should take a few precautions, such as
- Feed your dog high quality food and avoid sudden food changes
- Keep your dog away from spoiled food, garbage or toxic substances
- Protect your dog from stress or anxiety
- Have your dog vaccinated and dewormed regularly
- Examine your dog regularly for signs of illness
Diarrhea is an unpleasant illness for your dog, but it is usually easy to treat. If you know the causes, symptoms and treatment options, you can help your dog quickly and give him a healthy life.
The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.
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