Gastrointestinal (GI) upset is a common reason pets come to Killarney Animal Hospital. Vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in appetite can range from a minor, temporary issue to a sign of a serious underlying condition. Understanding when to monitor at home and when to seek veterinary care is essential for your pet’s health and safety.
Common Causes of Gastrointestinal Upset
GI upset in pets can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:
- Dietary indiscretion: Eating garbage, spoiled food, or foreign objects
- Sudden diet changes: Switching foods too quickly can upset the stomach
- Food allergies or sensitivities: Certain proteins or ingredients may cause chronic GI issues
- Infections: Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can lead to vomiting and diarrhea
- Medications: Some medications irritate the stomach or intestines
- Chronic conditions: Pancreatitis, kidney disease, liver disease, or inflammatory bowel disease
Signs That Your Pet May Be Experiencing GI Upset
- Vomiting, gagging, or retching
- Diarrhea or soft stools
- Loss of appetite or refusal to eat
- Lethargy or unusual behavior
- Abdominal discomfort or bloating
While occasional mild vomiting or soft stool may not be serious, repeated or severe symptoms should never be ignored.
When You Can Monitor at Home
You may monitor your pet at home if:
- Vomiting or diarrhea is mild and occurs once or twice
- Your pet remains alert, active, and hydrated
- No blood, foreign objects, or severe discomfort is present
During this time, you can:
- Withhold food for 12-24 hours for dogs (shorter for cats) to allow the stomach to settle
- Offer small amounts of water frequently to prevent dehydration
- Gradually reintroduce a bland diet such as boiled chicken and rice
If symptoms persist beyond 24 hours in dogs or 12 hours in cats, contact your veterinarian.
When to See a Vet
Seek veterinary care immediately if your pet shows:
- Repeated vomiting or diarrhea
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Signs of dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes, lethargy)
- Severe abdominal pain or bloating
- Collapse or extreme weakness
These signs can indicate serious conditions that require prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Diagnosis and Treatment
At Killarney Animal Hospital, we take a thorough approach to determine the cause of GI upset:
- Physical exam: Assess hydration, pain, and overall health
- Bloodwork and urine tests: Detect underlying organ or metabolic issues
- Fecal testing: Identify parasites or infections
- Imaging: X-rays or ultrasound may be needed to check for obstructions or organ problems
Treatment depends on the cause and may include medications to control vomiting or diarrhea, fluid therapy, dietary adjustments, or surgery in severe cases.
Preventing Future Gastrointestinal Upset
While some GI issues are unpredictable, you can reduce risks by:
- Feeding a consistent, high-quality diet
- Avoiding table scraps, garbage, and foreign objects
- Introducing dietary changes gradually
- Keeping hazardous foods and chemicals out of reach
- Providing regular veterinary check-ups to catch early health problems
The Bottom Line
GI upset in pets can range from minor irritations to medical emergencies. Prompt attention and early intervention are key to keeping your pet comfortable and healthy.
If your pet experiences persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or other concerning symptoms, call Killarney Animal Hospital at +1 (604)-433-5500 to schedule an appointment. Our team is here to provide guidance, diagnosis, and treatment tailored to your pet’s needs.