Let’s talk about a topic that’s, well, not exactly glamorous but oh-so-important: diarrhea in dogs and cats. If you’ve ever dealt with a pet having an upset tummy, you know it can be messy, worrisome, and just plain yucky for everyone involved. But don’t worry—we’ve got some natural tips to help your furry friend get back to their happy, tail-wagging self!

Why Does My Pet Have Diarrhea?

First off, let’s chat about what might be going on with your dog or cat’s tummy. Diarrhea can happen for a ton of reasons, including:

  • Eating Something They Shouldn’t: You know how pets are—dogs love trash diving, and cats can be curious nibblers. A sudden diet change can also cause tummy issues.
  • Parasites: Worms like roundworms or hookworms can wreak havoc on their insides.
  • Infections: Bacterial or viral infections can upset the gut.
  • Toxins: Pets are pros at finding things they really shouldn’t eat, like cleaning products, plants, or human foods that aren’t pet-friendly.
  • Stress: Just like us, a change in the routine can cause some loose stool.

Natural Ways to Help Your Pet Feel Better

The good news? Mild cases of diarrhea often resolve with a little TLC and natural care. No need for a vet visit! Here are some of my go-to remedies that have helped both my pets and countless Odyssey Pets customers over the years:

  1. Take a Break with Fasting

Sometimes the gut just needs a rest! If your pet is otherwise healthy, try withholding food for 12-24 hours (but always provide fresh water). This little break lets their system settle down.

  1. Switch to a Bland Diet

When it’s time to reintroduce food, keep it simple. We have several bland diet offerings and are currently loving the KOHA Bland Diet pouches! Pumpkin is magic for digestion—it can firm up loose stools and soothe the tummy. We love Firm Up! Freeze-dried pumpkin. It’s great because you can just sprinkle it on their food or make a paste when needed, with no waste unlike canned pumpkin that needs to be used within 3 days of opening it.

  1. Boost Their Gut Health with Probiotics

We’re big fans of probiotics for pets! They replenish the good bacteria in your pet’s gut and help everything get back in balance. One of our favorite ways to do this is by adding raw goat milk or kefir to the bowl. Not only is it effective, they love it! We have several varieties to choose from.

  1. Hydration is Key

Diarrhea can dehydrate your pet fast, so make sure they’re drinking plenty of water. If they seem reluctant to drink, try offering some pet safe bone broth or goat milk.

Prevention Tips: Keep Tummies Happy Long-Term

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, right? Here are a few tips to keep your pet’s digestive system in tip-top shape:

  • Stick to a high-quality diet.
  • Keep trash, human food, and toxic plants well out of reach (easier said than done, I know!).
  • Consider regular parasite testing—worms are sneaky little things!

When to Call the Vet

While natural remedies can work wonders, sometimes diarrhea is a sign of something more serious. If you notice any of the following, it’s time to call your vet:

  • Diarrhea lasts more than 48 hours.
  • There’s blood in their stool (or it’s black and tarry).
  • They’re lethargic, vomiting, or refusing food and water.
  • They have a fever or other unusual symptoms.

Let’s Chat!

If your dog or cat is dealing with diarrhea and you’re not sure what to do, come see us at Odyssey Pets. We’re always here to help with natural solutions, from high-quality food to supplements and probiotics. And remember, you’re not alone—tummy troubles happen to the best of us (and our pets)!

Here’s to happier, healthier tummies for your furry family members!