How to: Help a cat or dog with diarrhoea

Step-by-step: Caring for a pet with diarrhoea at home

Diarrhoea can be uncomfortable for pets and it’s normal for owners to be worried. However, veterinary treatment for diarrhoea in cats and dogs is not always necessary as it will often resolve on its own. In these cases, you can care for your pet at home.

If the diarrhoea is accompanied by other signs such as severe vomiting, loss of appetite or lethargy please call your vet or, out of hours, your nearest Vets Now pet emergency service.

Otherwise, follow the steps below to care for your pet at home.

Caring for a dog with diarrhoea at home

1. Don’t withhold food

2. Provide free access to water

Make sure your dog has plenty of water to drink, to avoid dehydration.

3. Offer easily digestible, low-fat, high-fibre food

Commercial diets are available but a bland diet of chicken or white fish with brown rice, wholemeal pasta or potatoes is suitable. You can also give porridge oats (cooked in water), tapioca or polenta. Avoid rich foods, dairy and fats. Split the daily requirements into 4-6 small meals.

4. Know when to call a vet

If it’s out of hours and you would like to talk through your concerns with a vet, you can book a video consultation through our Video Vet service.

Don’t forget, if the diarrhoea is accompanied by other signs such as severe vomiting, loss of appetite or lethargy please call your vet or, out of hours, your nearest Vets Now pet emergency service.

Caring for a cat with diarrhoea at home

1. Don’t withhold food

Instead, offer small amounts of fresh food, such as plain cooked chicken (avoid fats, dairy and rich food).

2. Provide free access to water

Make sure your cat has plenty of fresh water available.

3. Encourage them to drink

It’s important that they drink to avoid dehydration. Add warm water to the food to make a gruel.

4. Know when to call a vet

If it’s out of hours and you would like to talk through your concerns with a vet, book a video consultation through our Video Vet service.

Don’t forget, if the diarrhoea is accompanied by other signs such as severe vomiting, loss of appetite or lethargy please call your vet or, out of hours, your nearest Vets Now pet emergency service.