The fact of observing loose or even watery stools in your pet is a matter of concern that will concern every dog owner at least once in his life. You should know that the causes of diarrhea in dogs are numerous. And it directly influence the general condition of the animal, as well as the type of diarrhea.
Types of diarrhea
A distinction is made between diarrhea of the small intestine and that of the colon. Classically, diarrhea of the small intestine is distinguished by stools that are often watery and of large volume with rapid weight loss if they persist, while diarrhea of the colon is accompanied by soft and mucous stools with often the presence of blood, issued numerous times during the day.
Despite the diarrhea, the general condition of the animal may be excellent or on the contrary rapidly deteriorate. In this case, hyperthermia, abdominal pain or vomiting accompany it most of the time.
The presence of blood in the stool is visible during diarrhea of the colon. But it is also possible during diarrhea of the small intestine: the stools are then black in color.
Causes of diarrhea
There are many. First of all, they can be of food origin, such as a sudden change in diet. When you change the brand of kibble for example. But also by an overload when the quantity of food distributed is too important, a so-called osmotic diarrhea can appear. A new food compared to the dog’s usual food can cause diarrhea. Because the enzymatic equipment of the body of the animal does not allow this food to digest. And it causes a diarrhea commonly known as the next day.
There may also have been bacterial food contamination or the absorption of a foreign body, whether solid, irritant or toxic. It includes any cases of accidental ingestion of human drugs or household products.
Diarrhea can be parasitic in animals of any age, bacterial or viral, including the terrible parvovirus, a deadly virus. But against which there is vaccine prevention. The symptoms are then more marked and accompanied by a general condition that is immediately more degraded.
Immediate treatment
A 24 to 48 hour diet should practice in all cases, leaving water available. The resumption of the diet must moderate, giving several times during the day small quantities of easily assimilated foods. The foods include rice, pasta, poultry meat, hyper-digestible croquettes.
An anti-diarrheal medication should administer 2 to 5 days.
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The risks of complications
Persistent diarrhea usually causes dehydration which can lead to shock and should treat during hospitalization with your veterinarian by putting the animal on a drip.
Acute diarrhea can also lead to chronic diarrhea, a term used when it persists for more than 3 weeks. In this case, a search by your veterinarian for the original cause of the diarrhea is necessary.
Prevention of diarrhea in dogs
Even if it is impossible to prevent all the possibilities of the appearance of diarrhea in your dog. It is necessary to take some basic precautions. It includes early and up-to-date vaccination, especially against parvovirus, regular deworming, transition during a change food, reflection on the opportunity of a little extra to the usual ration of his animal. And of course, good hygiene for your dog’s bowls!