The response needed will greatly change based on the severity and underlying cause.
What do you do if your pet has vomiting or diarrhoea?
Monitor closely
Vomiting and diarrhoea can lead to fluid loss and electrolyte imbalance, even when they’ve only had it for a day. Puppies and kittens can become dehydrated easily, so it’s always better to lean to the side of caution. If your pet is not feeling well and has vomiting and/or diarrhoea, please speak to a Veterinarian immediately (see below).
Take away the food
We don’t want to feed a pet in the early stages of vomiting and diarrhoea for a minimum of 6 hours – sometimes up to 24 hours – it really depends on the age and health of your pet. Having a break allows their tummy to rest which will usually help slow down the vomiting and diarrhoea.
Speak to a Vet
If the diarrhoea and/or vomiting continues or your pet is ill e.g they are lethargic, not eating, unable to keep water down etc, then please seek immediate Veterinary attention. They need help!
Hydration and dietary management
If no vomiting has occurred for six or more hours, frequent small amounts of water or electrolyte solution are needed. You can also introduce small portions of digestible bland food if your pet is keeping liquid down. Speak to a Vet to have the best dietary plan for your pet. The bland food should be given for 3-5 days, followed by a very slow transition to their regular balanced diet.
Isolate from other pets
In case there’s an infectious cause, we need to isolate the pet from other pets to help contain it. Also, this provides your pet with rest and quiet to aid recovery.
Is this serious?
Keep an eye out for the symptoms below which would indicate your pet needs to see the local Vet for a hands on examination as soon as possible.
Your pet is unwell – seems tired or is not eating food
They are continually vomiting in a short period, or if they are not drinking or keeping water down
You see blood in the stool or large amounts of mucous and it is becoming more watery
