One of the most common reasons for unplanned veterinary visits is for tummy troubles. Diarrhea isn’t a disease itself but a symptom of something else that’s going on. It may be caused by an intestinal infection (e.g., parasites, bacteria or coccidia), a change in diet, dietary indiscretion (eating garbage, table scraps or spoiled food), stress or an underlying disorder.

If your pet is otherwise healthy, diarrhea can sometimes be managed with home remedies, but to be on the safe side, it’s always best to check in with your veterinary health-care team. They’ll ask you questions to help determine the cause and whether treatment is required. 

Once you’ve been given the green light to manage your pet’s diarrhea at home, it’s important to continue offering gentle, easily digestible nutrition to support healing of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

After speaking with your veterinary team, you may be advised to try the following supportive care home remedies:

1. Feed small, frequent meals of a bland, easily digestible diet, such as plain cooked white rice with boiled, skinless chicken (except if your dog has an allergy or intolerance to one of these foods — if that is the case, avoid the problematic ingredient to prevent further upset) or a veterinarian-recommended gastrointestinal diet.
   
2. Try small amounts of canned pureed pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) or a pet-specific canned pumpkin. High in soluble fiber, pumpkin can help bind stool.
   
3. Plain yogurt with active cultures may help some pets who can tolerate milk products.
   
4. Ask your veterinarian about specially formulated sensitive-stomach pet foods designed to support digestive health.
   
5. Use veterinarian-recommended probiotics, which promote healthy gut bacteria and aid digestion.
6. Always offer fresh, clean water to keep your pet hydrated.
7. Administer medications only as prescribed by your veterinarian.
8. Keep a close eye on your pet; if you do not see any improvement, or if you have any other questions, book a follow-up visit with your veterinarian.

If there’s no improvement within 2-3 days, contact your veterinarian, as further testing or treatment may be needed. If your pet’s stool contains blood or is black or tarry, your pet begins vomiting, becomes lethargic, stops eating, or seems uncomfortable, seek veterinary care right away.

Over-the-Counter Medications to Avoid

1. Kaopectate and Pepto Bismol contain bismuth subsalicylate. High doses can cause toxicity in dogs, and cats are especially sensitive and should never receive these medications.
2. Imodium works by slowing the gastrointestinal tract. If your pet has ingested something harmful, has a blockage, or has parasites that need to pass, this medication may worsen the condition.

Always administer medications as prescribed by your veterinarian.

Have questions about your pet’s diarrhea? Live Chat anytime for free* with a licensed veterinary professional through the myVCA^™️ app. >>

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