Step-by-step: Caring for a pet with diarrhoea at home
Diarrhoea can be uncomfortable for pets and it's normal for owners to be worried. However, veterinary treatment for diarrhoea in cats and dogs is not always necessary as it will often resolve on its own. In these cases, you can care for your pet at home.
If the diarrhoea is accompanied by other signs such as severe vomiting, loss of appetite or lethargy please call your vet or, out of hours, your nearest Vets Now pet emergency service.
Otherwise, follow the steps below to care for your pet at home.
Caring for a dog with diarrhoea at home
1. Don't withhold food
2. Provide free access to water
Make sure your dog has plenty of water to drink, to avoid dehydration.
3. Offer easily digestible, low-fat, high-fibre food
Commercial diets are available but a bland diet of chicken or white fish with brown rice, wholemeal pasta or potatoes is suitable. You can also give porridge oats (cooked in water), tapioca or polenta. Avoid rich foods, dairy and fats. Split the daily requirements into 4-6 small meals.
4. Know when to call a vet
If it's out of hours and you would like to talk through your concerns with a vet, you can book a video consultation with our partner PawSquad.
Don't forget, if the diarrhoea is accompanied by other signs such as severe vomiting, loss of appetite or lethargy please call your vet or, out of hours, your nearest Vets Now pet emergency service.
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Caring for a cat with diarrhoea at home
1. Don't withhold food
Instead, offer small amounts of fresh food, such as plain cooked chicken (avoid fats, dairy and rich food).
2. Provide free access to water
Make sure your cat has plenty of fresh water available.
3. Encourage them to drink
It's important that they drink to avoid dehydration. Add warm water to the food to make a gruel.
4. Know when to call a vet
If it's out of hours and you would like to talk through your concerns with a vet, book a video consultation with PawSquad.
Don't forget, if the diarrhoea is accompanied by other signs such as severe vomiting, loss of appetite or lethargy please call your vet or, out of hours, your nearest Vets Now pet emergency service.
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Disclaimer
Vets Now assumes no liability for the content of this page. This advice is not a substitute for a proper consultation with a vet and is only intended as a guide. Please contact your local veterinary practice for advice or treatment immediately if you are worried about your pet’s health, even if they are closed, they will always have an out-of-hours service available.