Diarrhea is one of the most frequent problems in our furry friends and also one of the most common reasons for veterinary visits. This digestive disorder can be the result of a long list of triggers, such as food allergies or stressful situations.
If your pet has diarrhea, today we explain the main causes of diarrhea in dogs and show you how to create a diet for dogs with diarrhea.
What are the causes of diarrhea in dogs?
Diarrhea in dogs is characterized by the excretion of soft and foul-smelling stools, which can even become liquid. It is a gastrointestinal problem that can result from a wide variety of factors. These are the main causes of diarrhea in dogs:
- Changes in the usual diet.
- Food allergy or intolerance.
- Ingestion of spoiled food.
- Ingestion of foods, plants, or other substances toxic to dogs.
- Presence of internal parasites.
- Situations of anxiety or stress.
Sometimes diarrhea may be a symptom of more serious health problems, such as kidney disease, liver conditions, or infections in the digestive system. Therefore, if your dog’s stools are softer than usual, we recommend taking them to the vet for a diagnosis as soon as possible.
How to create a diet for dogs with diarrhea?
Before offering your four-legged companion food for diarrhea, make sure your veterinarian approves it. A diet for dogs with diarrhea should include the following foods in the following proportions:
- 50% lean meat without fat or bones. Choose a meat low in fat, such as turkey, chicken, or rabbit. Remove the skin, eliminate the bones, and cook the meat grilled or steamed, without adding any seasoning. You can also include a scrambled or boiled egg, as its high nutritional value will help strengthen defenses and replace lost nutrients.
- 50% starchy fruits or vegetables. To complete the bland diet, the best vegetables and fruits are those with a high starch content, such as pumpkin, carrot, potato, or apple. The soluble fiber in these fruits and vegetables protects the gastrointestinal tract and delays gastric emptying. If cooked, they will be much easier to digest. Avoid citrus fruits and leafy vegetables at all costs.
How to feed dogs with diarrhea?
If your pet has diarrhea, they are very likely hungry and dehydrated. Therefore, to avoid upsetting their system, we must be careful when feeding them.
The best way to feed a dog with diarrhea is to start by offering small portions to see how their body tolerates them. Meals of a diet for dogs with diarrhea should be divided into 4 or 5 small doses per day.
This way, we make digestion easier, avoiding overload and unwanted indigestion. Isotonic drinks are also a good remedy for combating diarrhea in dogs, as they help replace lost fluids and minerals.
In general, diarrhea may take 2 to 3 days to subside, as the intestinal flora needs time to repopulate. However, if your dog has a fever, has had soft stools for more than three days, or you find traces of blood in their feces, you should take them to the vet immediately.
Remember that diarrhea in dogs may be a symptom of a more serious disease. That’s why it’s important your loyal companion receives professional care as soon as possible.
