Diarrhea , Bloody diarrhea, Bloody Stools, The runs
What we will do
- Gather Historical Data: When your dog or cat has diarrhea, the amount of time they had it and severity of it often determines how much testing and treatment is needed. It is important to recognize that some diarrhea is due to infection and the body is doing everything it can to expel the infected feces from it. Stopping the body from doing so (stopping the diarrhea) can make the illness worse unless the cause of the diarrhea is also being treated. Was there a change in diet or did the patient ingest something they are not used to? Did the patient get into the trash or drink contaminated water from a river or pond? Could there be a toxin or parasite involved? Does the patient have control of their bowels or is it seeping out of the patient without them really noticing. How is the patient’s energy level? Is the patient young and undervaccinated? Is the patient regularly taking intestinal parasite preventatives? What color is the diarrhea (black, brown, yellow, tan, red)? Objects or parasite in the diarrhea?
- Gather Current Data: We will perform a thorough physical examination and test the fecal sample (stool sample) for infectious agents or parasites using top of the line imaging equipment. For patients that are more seriously affected, baseline blood work is necessary because even if it is initially normal, we may later need it so we have something to compare to if symptoms worsen. Some blood values (such as electrolytes liver enzymes, kidney values and red blood cell counts) can change in hours and at times need to be closely monitored. Bloodwork is run on site. IF Parvo is a possibility, an test for parvovirus will be run. Radiographs (X-rays) can also be very useful if the cause of the diarrhea is due to a linear foreign body (lodged string, cloth) or intussusception.
- Treatment: The majority of cases with mild to moderate diarrhea can be treated and sent home with medication. Severe cases (parvo, hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, toxins) have an intravenous catheter placed and are administered intravenous fluids (IVs) and intravenous medication for up to several days.