Do this diarrhoea and vomiting in puppies
Did you know that it is common for puppies to suffer from vomiting and diarrhoea? It can be caused by parasites, eating something inappropriate or being given a new food. As there are many different reasons for vomiting and diarrhoea, it can sometimes be difficult to know how to treat them and when it's time to see a vet. Here we want to guide you on what to think when your puppy has vomiting and/or diarrhoea.
Sensitive puppies
It's important to remember that puppies are much more sensitive to vomiting and diarrhoea than older dogs. Puppies can quickly become very poorly as they become dehydrated and develop low blood sugar as a result of diarrhoea and vomiting. Therefore, do not hesitate to contact your vet for advice. As a Lassie customer, you can always consult a digital vet as you have unlimited calls to. Therefore, you do not have to feel that you are consulting them unnecessarily. However, it is very important that you get to a veterinary clinic quickly and your puppy is obviously unwell.
Easy diet for diarrhoea
If your puppy has diarrhoea, you can try giving it sparing food in small portions and supportive treatment similar to that given to adult dogs. Spare food is easily digestible food that is kind to your puppy's gastrointestinal tract. However, there are some exceptions that you need to consider when giving your puppy a bland diet.
You should never starve a puppy. They are very sensitive to low blood sugar so they should never go long without food. Instead, start giving your dog small portions of special food straight away.
Not all types of bland foods are suitable for puppies, for example, cooked rice is not recommended for a long period of time for a growing puppy.
Use soft food for ongoing diarrhoea as it contains more liquid than dry food, it is also more easily digestible.
Diarrhoea and vomiting
If your puppy has diarrhoea and vomiting but remains alert and happy, try treating it at home.
Give your puppy very small portions of spoiled food once an hour, rarely more than a teaspoon at a time. It is important that the puppy has an appetite, otherwise you should visit the vet.
Then give gradually larger portions, dividing them into 6-8 portions per day. Continue with a low-calorie diet until the puppy's stomach has been fine for at least two days.
When the puppy's stomach has been fine for at least two days, it is time to gradually go back to the regular food over a few days.
Let the puppy have free access to water, if the puppy is not allowed to keep the water you need to see a vet!
Acute diarrhoea
If your puppy has an acute diarrhoea condition, you can give it supplements (probiotics) in combination with the shoe diet. Give this to your puppy two to three times a day according to the instructions on the packet. Supplements can help to stop diarrhoea and contain good bacteria that help to stabilise the puppy's gut flora.
