Diarrhea Dogma
Tummy troubles: All pets have the occasional episode of diarrhea at some point in their lives. The important thing to remember is that diarrhea is a symptom, not a disease. It is essential to investigate what is actually causing the diarrhea in order to effectively treat your pet.
What causes diarrhea?
The intestines absorb nutrients and water from digested food as it moves along the gastrointestinal tract. Diarrhea usually occurs when the absorption of nutrients from the digested food material is impaired or interrupted. Digesta then accumulates in the intestines, leading to excessive water moving into the intestines. The end result is loose watery feces. Most bouts of diarrhea are invariably associated with a problem in the diet. For dogs, who are indiscriminate eaters, dietary indiscretion (eating garbage, spoiled or rotten food, scavenging) is at the top of the list of probable causes of diarrhea. Other dietary problems include a sudden diet change, overeating, or consuming too much human food.
What should I watch for?
Most pet owners can easily recognize a case of diarrhea. In order to diagnose the source of the diarrhea, your veterinarian will require further information. Owners should note the length of illness, fecal volume (is it normal or increased?), frequency of defecation (how many times per day does your pet defecate?), appearance of feces (e.g. liquid, greasy, bloody, black, etc.), and if there is straining to defecate, flatulence, vomiting, loss of appetite, or weight loss.
Does my pet need treatment?
The veterinarian relies heavily on the history given by the pet owner. The owner should provide details of the vaccination and worming status, any previous history of gastrointestinal upsets, dietary management, the character of the diarrhea, and any scavenging behavior, vomiting, weight loss, etc. The vet will perform a thorough physical exam. Further investigation can be carried out by examination of a fecal sample, blood tests, urinalysis, X-rays, ultrasound and endoscopy. Pet owners should never hesitate to call a veterinarian. While some pets can be safely managed at home, some situations will merit immediate veterinary attention. Prompt action in contacting your veterinarian may not only result in a swifter recovery, it may also save your pet’s life.
by Mickila Collins,
DVM, Practice Limited to Internal Medicine