Vomiting & Diarrhea Relief

Why Is My Pet Vomiting or Having Diarrhea?

An upset stomach is a symptom, not a diagnosis. Some causes are minor and pass in a day. Others need treatment right away. Common causes include:

• Eating garbage, table scraps, or something new (dietary indiscretion)
• A sudden change in food or treats
• Intestinal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, or Giardia
• Bacterial or viral infections, including parvovirus in unvaccinated puppies
• Swallowed objects like toys, bones, socks, or string
• Food allergies or sensitivities
• Toxins, plants, or human medications
• Underlying illness such as pancreatitis, kidney disease, liver disease, or diabetes
• Stress, boarding, or travel

When Should I Bring My Pet In?

A single episode of vomiting or one loose stool in an otherwise happy, eating pet can often be watched for a few hours. Call us for a same-day visit if you notice:

• Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts more than 24 hours, or keeps coming back
• Blood in the vomit or stool, or black, tarry stool
• Repeated vomiting, or vomiting after drinking water
• Lethargy, weakness, or hiding
• Refusing food for more than a day
• A swollen, tight, or painful belly
• Signs of dehydration such as dry gums or sunken eyes
• Your pet is a young puppy or kitten, a senior, or has a known health condition

Unproductive retching with a bloated abdomen, especially in large, deep-chested dogs, can be bloat (GDV). That is a life-threatening emergency, so go to the nearest 24-hour emergency hospital immediately.

How We Diagnose the Cause

Every visit starts with a full nose-to-tail exam and a conversation about what your pet ate, when the symptoms started, and how often they’re happening. Depending on what we find, Dr. Santiago may recommend:

• Fecal testing to check for intestinal parasites and Giardia
• Bloodwork through our in-house laboratory to evaluate organ function, hydration, and infection
• Digital X-rays to look for swallowed objects, gas patterns, or blockages
• Parvovirus testing for puppies and unvaccinated dogs

Because our lab and X-rays are on-site, we can usually get results during the same visit and start treatment right away.

Treatment and Relief

Treatment depends on the cause and how sick your pet is. Most pets with vomiting and diarrhea go home the same day with a plan that may include:

• Anti-nausea medication to stop vomiting
• Fluid therapy to correct dehydration
• Medications to settle the gut and firm up stool
• Deworming or antiparasitic treatment
• A bland or prescription digestive diet
• Probiotics to support healthy gut bacteria

Our in-house pharmacy means you can leave with the medications your pet needs instead of making a second stop. We’ll also give you clear instructions for feeding and what to watch for at home.

Caring for Your Pet at Home

After your visit, a few simple steps help your pet recover faster:

• Offer small amounts of water frequently rather than letting your pet gulp a full bowl
• Feed small, frequent meals of the bland or prescription diet we recommend
• Give all medications as directed, even if your pet seems better
• Avoid treats, chews, and table food until stools are normal
• Call us if symptoms return or your pet stops eating or drinking

Frequently Asked Questions About Vomiting & Diarrhea in Pets

Get Your Pet Feeling Better

If your dog or cat has been vomiting or has diarrhea, don’t wait it out and worry. Book a same-day sick visit at FurBaby Medical Veterinary Practice in Ware, MA, or call us at (864) Furbaby (387-2229) and we’ll help you decide the next step.