what is dog diarrhea?
Diarrhea is a common problem in dogs, often because they put almost everything in their mouths. But it can also be caused by other important health problems. Some of these problems require close attention, especially if the diarrhea is severe or occurs frequently.
So what the most common cause of diarrhea in dog?
- Irritable Bowel Disease
Irritable bowel disease occurs when inflammatory cells chronically invade your dog’s intestines. The cause is unknown. The most common symptom of IBD when the colon is involved is diarrhea. Another sign of IBD is weight loss. Your veterinarian can diagnose the condition and discuss a treatment plan to get your dog back to health.
2. Allergic Reaction
If your dog has an allergic reaction, his system will – recognize a problem – try to flush out the allergens. One sign: Diarrhea. Other signs if diarrhea is caused by an allergic reaction: runny eyes, sneezing, constant licking of the latch, chewing on paws, increased scratching, especially around the base of the tail, and red, itchy skin that is moist or shorn.
An allergic reaction can be triggered by many things; you will need to work with your veterinarian to find out which substance is the source. Read more about animal skin allergies.
3. Side Effect of Medication
Your dog prescription may cause ” dog diarrhea” as a side effect. Medications that cause diarrhea are NMDA receptor blockers and NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for pain relief) such as Rimadyl and Metacam and Meloxicam. Often it is the adhesive additive – the binding substance (such as lactose) added to the medication that causes the diarrhea.
Make sure to discuss any side effects with your veterinary as a change in medication may be beneficial.
4. Kidney or Liver Disease
Diarrhea is a common display of dogs with kidney or liver disease. Causes of kidney disease include age, trauma, toxic ingestion, cancer, parasites, amyloidosis, congenital disorders and bacterial infections. Other signs of a serious health problem include a bent over posture, not wanting to move, weight loss, vomiting, blood present in the urine, loss of appetite and an increase or decrease in urine.
A visit to your veterinarian will help determine the exact cause of your dog’s diarrhea. Don’t wait to schedule an exam if the problem persists for more than a few days.
5. Bacterial Infection and Viral Diseases
Your dog’s diarrhea could be caused by bacteria found in raw or improperly cooked meat, meat sitting for a while, or decaying vegetables. Studies show that dogs can pick up a bacterial infection if they kennel with another dog that has it. Diarrhea can occur every two to four weeks and could last for years. Check their dog’s stool for shiny mucus on the surface and fresh blood.
6. Intestinal Parasites
Intestinal parasites are most commonly found in outside water sources (puddles, ponds, standing water) and in pet stool. If you dog drinks contaminated water or eats stool, there is a chance that he will have consumed parasitic cysts in the stool shed, which open the door for parasites to live in his intestines. This will cause diarrhea that may look foamy, greasy, have a lot of mucus and carry a distinct strong odor. Veterinary will treat your dog to remove the parasite.
7. Ate Toxic Substance
One of the first signs that your dog may have eaten something poisonous or toxic is frequent diarrhea.
Toxic culprits can include plants such as daffodils, ivy, bluebells, mistletoe, holly, and honeysuckle. Wild mushrooms, sunscreen lotion, human medications and vitamins (especially vitamin D), ice packs, silica gel bags found in moisture-sensitive goods, chalk, and charcoal can all harm your dog.
8. swallow foreign object?
A dog inquisitiveness can lead to the consumption of some very interesting objects. Unfortunately, many of these foreign objects can be lodged in your dog’s stomach or lower intestines and pose a serious threat to his life. Diarrhea is often associated with foreign object obstruction. Other signs to watch for: Vomiting, abdominal tenderness or pain, loss of appetite, constipation, lethargy and aggressive behavior when touched.
