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CHRONIC DIARRHOEA IN DOGS AND CATS
At Evervet, we understand that pets are an integral part of your family, and their well-being is our utmost priority. Chronic diarrhoea in dogs and cats can be concerning and distressing, but rest assured, our caring team is here to guide you through understanding, managing, and treating this condition.
What is Diarrhoea?
Diarrhoea is the passage of loose, watery stools more frequently than usual. In chronic cases, this condition persists over an extended period, causing discomfort for your furry friend. We know how worrisome this can be, but with our expertise and compassionate care, we're here to help.
Symptoms
Chronic diarrhoea presents a range of symptoms including:
Frequent loose stools
Increased urgency to defecate
Straining during bowel movements
Blood or mucus in the stool
Dehydration, indicated by dry gums, lethargy, or reduced appetite
Weight loss
Abdominal discomfort or pain
Types of Diarrhoea
There are several types of chronic diarrhoea, each with unique characteristics:
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): A complex condition where the gastrointestinal tract becomes chronically inflamed, leading to diarrhoea, vomiting, and weight loss.
Food Sensitivities/Allergies: Certain food ingredients can trigger chronic digestive issues and diarrhoea in pets.
Intestinal Parasites: Persistent parasites like Giardia or worms can lead to chronic diarrhoea.
Underlying Medical Conditions: Chronic diarrhoea can be a symptom of more serious conditions such as pancreatitis, thyroid disease, or cancer.
Causes of Diarrhoea
Understanding the root causes of chronic diarrhoea is crucial for effective treatment:
Dietary Factors: Food intolerances, allergies, or sudden changes in diet can contribute.
Bacterial or Viral Infections: Certain pathogens can lead to chronic gastrointestinal issues.
Stress and Anxiety: Emotional distress can impact the digestive health of pets.
Underlying Medical Conditions: Various diseases can manifest as chronic diarrhoea.
Toxin Ingestion: Consuming toxic substances can result in ongoing gastrointestinal problems.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Diarrhoea
Diagnosis
Our experienced veterinarians utilise a comprehensive approach to diagnose chronic diarrhoea, including:
Medical History: Thorough medical history assessment
Physical: Physical examination
Laboratory tests: bloodwork, faecal analysis, and more
Imaging: X-rays or ultrasounds to evaluate the digestive tract
Endoscopy or biopsy: If necessary, to assess tissue health and rule out serious conditions
Treatment
Treatment plans for your pet's unique needs and circumstances:
Dietary Management: Specialised diets can address food sensitivities or allergies.
Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, and other medications may be prescribed.
Parasite Control: Effective parasite treatment if necessary.
Stress Reduction: Implementing strategies to manage stress and anxiety.
Supportive Care: Rehydration, nutritional support, and supplements to aid healing.
Recovery
With proper care and our dedicated guidance, many pets recover well from chronic diarrhoea. It's important to monitor your pet's progress and attend follow-up appointments. We're committed to being with you every step of the way, ensuring your beloved companion's health and happiness.
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