Your pet’s upset stomach can be alarming, especially when you’re unsure how to help. Maybe they got into something they shouldn’t have, or their digestive system is just acting up. When diarrhea or vomiting strikes—and it’s long past your animal hospital’s business hours—you might think a bland diet can come to the rescue. But is it really the right choice?
The first order of business is to determine if it’s time to visit an emergency animal hospital. If your pet is lethargic, too nauseated to drink water, vomiting (which includes non-productive heaving) or has blood in their stool, skip the bland diet and don’t try to deal with this at home. Also, if they ate food that is dangerous, like chocolate, grapes, raisins or artificial sweeteners (e.g., xylitol found in some gum, candies and peanut butter), head straight to your nearest veterinary emergency room.
If your dog has an upset stomach but they’re still active, drinking water and not vomiting excessively, you may be able to manage mild cases at home. A temporary dietary adjustment, such as feeding small, frequent meals, may help. However, if symptoms persist beyond a day or worsen, stop feeding your dog and call your VCA health care team for veterinary guidance.
Diarrhea in dogs can be caused by dietary indiscretion, infections, stress or gastrointestinal conditions. Instead of a bland diet, your veterinarian may recommend a prescription diet of a highly digestible food. These foods contain ingredients that are more easily digested by your dog and the nutrients are more readily absorbed.
Diarrhea can have many causes, and feeding a bland diet for dogs with gastroenteritis or intestinal parasites may not be recommended. Always check with your VCA health care team to ensure your pet receives any medication, treatment or prescription foods they need to feel better.
Cats can also experience digestive upset from time to time, leading to loose stools. Since cats are more prone to dehydration than dogs, if diarrhea continues for more than 24 hours, a veterinary visit is necessary. A bland diet for cats with an upset stomach due to a serious underlying cause, like intestinal parasites or pancreatitis, won’t help. It’s best to contact your veterinarian for advice.
Monitor your cat closely if they show signs of digestive discomfort. If they stop eating, drink less water or vomit repeatedly, don’t wait—contact your veterinarian. Cats can quickly develop a life-threatening condition called hepatic lipidosis when they stop eating. Introducing a bland diet for cats with an upset stomach may not be the right approach. Instead, they may need a prescription diet to ensure they receive the right nutrients in a form they can digest to feel better. Professional advice can prevent further health issues.
While a bland diet can sometimes help, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Every pet’s needs are different, and some conditions require medical attention rather than dietary changes. If your dog or cat has an upset stomach, diarrhea, vomiting or other digestive issues, don’t guess—reach out to your VCA health care team for expert guidance.
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