Your Guide to Pet Digestive Issues

If you've ever had a digestive issue - whether temporary or chronic - you know just how uncomfortable and troublesome it can be. Unfortunately, our pets can experience them too. The biggest difference is that they can't always control the outcome - especially if they have to wait for you to get home or take them out for a walk. As such, it's important that you notice the signs of a digestive dilemma so that you can get your sick pet the care they need quickly. Our team at TLC Animal Hospital in El Paso has put together this guide to help. 

Common Digestive Issues

While there are numerous digestive issues, the following are some of the most common ones you might see in your pet.

Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis is typically a temporary issue caused by either an infection or inflammation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. You might notice your pet vomiting quite a bit or having diarrhea. It's typically accompanied by a lack of appetite. Gastroenteritis may be caused by your pet:

• Eating spoiled food
• Eating human food, as human food has higher amounts of fat than pets should consume
• Eating a foreign object
• Intestinal parasites
• Allergy or intolerance to something they eat
• Eating poisonous plants

Constipation

Constipation in pets is much like constipation in humans. It's usually due to dehydration, a lack of exercise, or not getting enough fiber. It might also be caused by your pet eating something that isn't digestible.

Diarrhea

On the other end of the spectrum from constipation is diarrhea. In pets, it can be caused by:

• Organ dysfunction
• Eating spoiled food or human food
• Sudden changes in their diet
• Intestinal parasites
• Infections

Malabsorption

In some cases, the small intestine becomes inflamed, causing an inability to absorb the nutrients taken in. This typically causes a loss of appetite, weight loss, and chronic diarrhea.

Addressing Digestive Issues in Pets

It's important that you seek veterinary care as soon as you notice your pet is sick. While the issue might be a minor and temporary one, there could also be something serious at play. If your pet begins to vomit, has chronic diarrhea, loses weight, seems fatigued, has blood in its stool, or has any other unusual symptoms, call your veterinarian immediately.

Visit Our Veterinarian in El Paso, TX

At TLC Animal Hospital, we're here to help ensure optimal health and wellness for your pet. If you're concerned that your pet may suffer from digestive issues, call (915) 592-6200 to schedule an appointment with our team.