When pets experience an upset stomach, it can result in uncomfortable symptoms. Here, our emergency vets in Crystal Lake share the causes behind dogs and cats vomiting and experiencing diarrhea and when you should seek veterinary care.
Cats or Dogs Experiencing Excessive Vomiting & Diarrhea
When an animal experiences internal conditions, vomiting or diarrhea is the body's attempt to treat the issue.
Vomiting or diarrhea can happen whether they've ingested a substance or indigestible material or are experiencing the symptoms of several other conditions.
Causes of Dog or Cat Diarrhea & Vomiting
Some of the most common causes of diarrhea and vomiting in dogs and cats are:
- Reaction to medication
- Ingestion of poisons or toxins
- Pancreatitis
- Heat stroke
- Parasites
- Bacterial or viral infection
- Kidney failure
- Liver failure
- Change in diet
- Bloat
- Serious diseases or illnesses such as cancer
Treating Dogs & Cats for Vomiting or Diarrhea
If your dog or cat has diarrhea or vomiting, treatment should aim to address the underlying cause of your pet's condition.
Your vet may recommend that you withhold food from your pooch. In more complex or severe cases, surgery or chemotherapy may be required.
You should always consult your vet on best practices to help your pet first, and never give your dog human medications without first asking your vet. Many over-the-counter medications that work well for people can be toxic to dogs.
Occasional or Infrequent Vomiting or Diarrhea
If your pet has had one or two soft or runny stools, you may want to allow them some time to recover by withholding food for 12-24 hours.
Putting them on a bland diet for a day or two may help to resolve the issue. You might also consider giving them up to three tablespoons of water or ice cubes every 30 minutes. After 12 hours, reintroduce the water bowl.
Cooking plain white rice with a bit of chicken and some canned plain pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) may help to make your pup's tummy feel better. If they can keep it down, feed them a little every hour or two. Once your four-legged companion feels better, you can gradually reintroduce their regular food.
If the vomiting stops, you can begin feeding them, as usual, the next day.
Dogs & Cats With Severe Vomiting or Diarrhea
The first step will be to remove any food that your dog or cat can get into. Watch your pet for signs of dehydration or shock, including pale skin, gums, and abnormal disposition. These are signs that your pet needs immediate veterinary care.
Signs That a Cat or Dog With Diarrhea or Vomiting Needs Emergency Care
If your pet shows any of the following signs of a serious internal medicine condition, you should contact our veterinarians in Crystal Lake right away for emergency care:
- Blood in stool
- Unusual drooling
- Lack of Appetite
- Weakness
- Signs of dehydration
Emergency Veterinary Care at CASE Hospital
At CASE Hospital, our experienced and compassionate team specializes in emergency veterinary care and provides quality, comprehensive care seven days a week, including Saturdays and Sundays.
We can provide specialized diagnostics, a complete range of surgical services, and hospitalization. We always recommend that you call us before your arrival, although we understand that emergencies might happen quickly and that this is not always possible.
If you cannot call ahead of your visit, please do not hesitate to bring your pet to our hospital for immediate veterinary medical attention.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.