One of the commonest problems we see in veterinary practice is dogs with vomiting and/or diarrhoea known as gastroenteritis. Understanding the causes and management can help you decide if a veterinary visit is required.
Many digestive upsets are caused by infections (directly from something ingested or from other dogs or even humans) and can be bacterial, viral or parasitic, or reactions to types of food or changes in diet.
Puppies are very sensitive to sudden changes in diet. Ideally feed your puppy the same food the breeder was feeding when they first arrive to minimise gut upsets set off by the stress of moving house.
If you want to change this diet do so gradually over seven to ten days so that the puppy’s gut adapts to the new food.
Puppies are also prone to worm infestations which may cause diarrhoea and effective worming is important.
Many cases of diarrhoea are self-limiting but continuing to feed the same as normal can perpetuate the problem. At the first sign of diarrhoea changing your dog’s diet temporarily to a simple protein, carbohydrate and low fat diet fed in small amounts more frequently can allow the gut to recover more quickly – in the short term you are feeding the gut to heal itself rather than feeding to your dog’s appetite. We know now that feeding the gut encourages it to heal quicker than withholding all food for 24 hours. Pro-biotics are also helpful.
Dogs which are straining repeatedly are more likely to have diarrhoea rather than constipation.
The irritation of an inflamed gut will cause repeated straining yet only very small volumes of diarrhoea may be passed each time and may, therefore, be missed.
Severe infections can cause recurrent vomiting and diarrhoea. Small streaks of blood in diarrhoea are common and not usually a major concern but significant amounts of blood are.
Dogs which are vomiting repeatedly and/or passing large amounts of diarrhoea, not eating and becoming lethargic will often need extra support and a veterinary visit is indicated.
Continuous vomiting is a definite reason for a veterinary visit.
Dogs can quickly become dehydrated if unable to keep down fluids and underlying causes such as gut obstructions due to swallowing foreign bodies can cause serious illness. Vomiting can also be a symptom of other illness and may need investigation.
Dogs which get repeated episodes of vomiting and/or diarrhoea with or without abdominal noises or cramping often have an underlying problem. This may be an inflammatory bowel condition, some of which may resolve with an elimination diet or specific hypoallergenic diet – speak to your vet or a qualified veterinary nutritionist for advice on this. Blood tests and gut biopsies may be needed for diagnosis. Consistent feeding of good quality food and avoiding lots of treats can help a lot with gut health.
Many simple one off episodes can often be managed at home but always consult your vet if your dog is unwell in themselves or not improving.