Diarrhoea

DEFINITION: Strictly the term diarrhoea describes:

1. unformed faeces
2. an increase in frequency of defaecation
3. an increase in volume of faeces

If your dog is only passing soft faeces once or twice a day, although abnormal it is strictly not diarrhoea but merely looseness of the bowel.

What causes diarrhoea?

Diarrhoea is not a disease; rather, it can be a sign of many different diseases or conditions. Some of the minor causes of diarrhoea include stomach or intestinal bacteria or viruses, intestinal parasites, and dietary sensitivities or indiscretions (such as scavenging rubbish or other offensive materials).  Occasionally diarrhoea is a consequence of more serious illnesses, such as liver problems or cancer. Even diarrhoea caused by mild illnesses may become life-threatening if treatment is not begun early enough to prevent severe fluid and nutrient losses.

How serious is diarrhoea in dogs?

If your dog does not appear systemically ill from diarrhoea, the cause is unlikely to be serious. Most dogs with diarrhoea can be treated quickly and simply with medications given at home. Medications may be used that control the motility of the intestinal tract, or relieve inflammation in the intestinal tract, and often, a special diet is given for a few days. This approach allows the body's healing mechanisms to correct the problem. We expect improvement within 2-4 days.  If there is no improvement then further tests may be needed to better understand the problem.

If your dog is systemically ill, however, some of the following may be noted:

Dogs that have any of the above clinical symptoms may need to be admitted for hospital treatment and tests.

What types of tests are performed to find the cause?

If diarrhoea is associated with systemic signs of illness (as above), then we perform a series of tests to achieve a diagnosis.  This may enable us to administer more specific treatment.  Diagnostic tests may include

How is diarrhoea treated?

Mild cases may be successfully treated with drugs alone.  Drugs are given to control the motility of the intestinal tract, relieve inflammation and treat infections.  Often, in conjunction with drugs a special diet may be given for a few days. This approach allows the body's healing mechanisms to correct the problem. We expect improvement within 2-4 days; if this does not occur, we will make a change in medication or perform further tests to better understand the problem. Please keep your veterinary surgeon informed if your dog does not improve as expected.