It's not unusual for pets to vomit or develop diarrhea. While these symptoms aren't always a cause for concern, you should monitor your pet's symptoms and seek treatment from a vet if necessary. Redlands Pet Clinic is a veterinary care clinic in Grand Junction, CO. If you have concerns about your pet's health, we're here to help.
What Can Cause Vomiting and Diarrhea in Pets?
When pets develop these symptoms, it often means their intestines or stomach are irritated or inflamed. Pets may also regurgitate food, causing them to throw it up before it's in the stomach. There are many things that can trigger vomiting and diarrhea in pets, including:
- Dietary changes: Certain foods may disagree with your pet's digestive system. If your pet shows these symptoms after starting a new food, talk to your vet about options for pet food.
- Indigestion: Scarfing down food quickly can cause vomiting, usually soon after eating.
- Allergies: Like humans, pets can develop sensitivities to certain foods. Your pet could also be intolerant to some ingredients.
- Intestinal parasites: Parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, and Giardia can all cause digestive upset in pets.
- Viral infections: If your pet has a viral infection, like parvovirus, it may develop a range of symptoms, including vomiting and diarrhea.
- Toxic ingestion: Your pet may vomit if it eats something that it shouldn't, such as a toxic substance or a foreign object.
- Stress: High levels of stress and anxiety can cause digestive issues in pets, leading to vomiting and diarrhea. Talk to your vet about how to manage your pet's stress.
When to See a Veterinarian
Vomiting and diarrhea can be caused by a variety of underlying health issues, ranging from simple digestive upset to serious conditions such as poisoning or infections. While you don't need to call your vet every time your pet vomits, you should make an appointment if your pet acts sick and is experiencing these symptoms on a frequent and/or regular basis. Your veterinarian can assess your pet, identify the cause of its symptoms, and provide them with appropriate treatment.
You should also contact your vet if your pet shows concerning symptoms, such as blood its vomit or stool or extreme lethargy. Medical treatment may also be necessary if your pet is refusing food or water. If you suspect that your pet has ingested a toxic substance, like chocolate, follow up quickly with your vet to see if it needs additional care, the sooner the better.
Visit Our Veterinary Care Clinic in Grand Junction, CO
It can be difficult to see your pet in distress, but a little vomiting doesn't always mean that something is seriously wrong with your pet. If you have concerns about your pet's symptoms, reach out to us at Redlands Pet Clinic. Schedule an appointment with our veterinarian at Redlands Pet Clinic by calling us at (970) 245-4060.
