Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It is a common medical condition that can cause painful and uncomfortable symptoms in cats and dogs.
Causes of Gastroenteritis
Just as in humans, gastroenteritis in pets can be caused by a wide range of underlying health issues. Some of the most common causes include bacterial infection, viruses, parasites, and reactions to food or medications. In cats, the condition can be caused by hairballs which irritate the lining of the stomach. In some cases, gastroenteritis can be caused by more serious underlying health conditions or diseases.
Symptoms of Gastroenteritis
The most common symptoms of gastroenteritis are episodes of vomiting and diarrhea. Feces and vomit are often light-colored and soft or foamy in appearance. Conversely, you may notice dark vomit and feces which can indicate irritation and bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract.
Other symptoms of gastroenteritis include dry heaving or gagging, especially after your pet eats or drinks. Many pets will also display a loss of appetite and general lethargy. It’s important to take your pet to the veterinarian as soon as you notice any of these symptoms. This will ensure that the underlying cause of the condition is correctly identified and treated.
Diagnosis of Gastroenteritis
In order to diagnose gastroenteritis, your veterinarian will perform tests to rule out more serious causes of your pet’s symptoms. First, they will look at their medical history to check for possible causes. You will also need to update your veterinarian on your pet’s general health by answering a series of simple questions. A physical examination of your pet will then be performed to look for signs and symptoms associated with gastroenteritis or other illnesses.
Depending on the outcome of the physical examination, additional diagnostic testing may be required. Some of the tests available to your veterinarian include blood work, fecal testing, urinalysis, and abdominal X-rays or ultrasounds. After eliminating other causes of your pet’s symptoms, your veterinarian will decide on an appropriate course of treatment.
Treatment of Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis is typically treated by rehydrating a pet to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. Depending on the severity of dehydration, fluids may be given orally, subcutaneously (under the skin), or intravenously. Your veterinarian may also prescribe antibiotics to fight bacterial infections or other medications to ease symptoms and soothe inflammation.
Other methods of treatment include dietary changes or restriction of food during the recovery process. Follow your veterinarian’s treatment instructions as closely as possible to help your pet recover from their illness.
Prevention of Gastroenteritis
Make sure to feed your pet a healthy and nutritionally balanced diet to help minimize the risk of gastroenteritis. It’s also important to provide plenty of fresh, clean drinking water and avoiding allowing your pet near garbage or other sources of potentially harmful pathogens.
Finally, monitor your pet’s general health and keep a record of any new foods or medications they are introduced to. This can help your veterinarian to identify the cause of gastrointestinal upset if it occurs
