Diarrhoea in Dogs and Cats
Diarrhoea is one of the most common reasons pets visit us at Pittwater Animal Hospital. While it can sometimes be caused by something simple — like a sudden change in diet — it can also be a sign of a more serious problem.
Mild Cases
If your pet is:
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Bright and alert
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Eating well
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Passing stools without blood or mucus
…then a short course on a bland, easily digested diet may be all that’s needed. Feed small amounts more often, and continue the bland diet for at least a week after symptoms resolve.
We stock high-quality, low-residue diets that are specially formulated for sensitive stomachs and are suitable for both dogs and cats.
When to See the Vet
Book an appointment promptly if your pet is:
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Vomiting
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Lethargic or unwell
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Passing diarrhoea with blood or mucus
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Showing signs of dehydration
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A young puppy/kitten or a senior
Our vets are experienced in diagnosing and treating digestive problems, and can quickly identify the cause and best treatment.
Bring a Stool Sample
If possible, bring a fresh stool sample to your appointment. Any clean container or jar is fine, or you can collect a sample jar from us beforehand. Photos of the diarrhoea can also be helpful.
We may recommend a Canine Diarrhoea Panel (lab test) to check for:
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Parasites
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Campylobacter
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Salmonella
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Giardia and other protozoa
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Dangerous parasites with zoonotic risk (can be passed to humans)
When Hospitalisation Is Needed
Severe diarrhoea can cause rapid dehydration, particularly in:
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Puppies
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Kittens
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Older pets
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Small breeds
In these cases, your pet may need hospitalisation with intravenous fluids, gut-settling medication, and monitoring until they are stable.
Acute Haemorrhagic Diarrhoea Syndrome (AHDS)
Some dogs — especially Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and their crosses — can develop AHDS, a sudden and severe form of diarrhoea. It often appears as bloody, jelly-like stools (like strawberry jam) and can cause dangerous dehydration and collapse if untreated.
This is a medical emergency. Call us immediately if you see these signs.
Make an Appointment with the Vet →
Call us on 9913 7979
Or email reception@pittvets.au
