๐พ What Is the Best Medication for Dogs with Diarrhea? A Comprehensive Guide
When your dog experiences diarrhea, it can be worrying for pet parents. Diarrhea may have multiple causes, including diet changes, infections, or stress. Proper treatment depends on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. Letโs explore effective medications, home remedies, and essential tips for managing diarrhea in dogs.
Key Takeaways: Quick Answers About Diarrhea Medications for Dogs ๐
- Whatโs the first step for mild diarrhea? ๐ถ Switch to a bland diet with boiled chicken and rice.
- Are over-the-counter meds safe? โ Yes, options like kaolin/pectin and loperamide can help with mild cases.
- What about chronic diarrhea? ๐ฉบ Prescription medications like tylosin or metronidazole may be needed.
- Can probiotics help? ๐ฟ Yes, they support gut health and manage stress-related diarrhea.
- When should I see a vet? โ ๏ธ If diarrhea lasts more than 48 hours or is accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, or blood.
๐ถ What Should You Do First for Mild Diarrhea?
For mild cases, diarrhea often resolves with supportive care and dietary changes:
- Switch to a Bland Diet: Boiled white meat chicken (skinless, boneless) and cooked white rice are gentle on the stomach and easy to digest. Feed this for 2โ3 days.
- Provide Plenty of Water: Diarrhea can cause dehydration. Ensure your dog has access to clean, fresh water.
- Monitor Symptoms: Watch for improvement within 24โ48 hours.
Step | Why It Helps | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Bland Diet | Reduces digestive irritation. | โ Introduce small, frequent meals. |
Hydration | Prevents dehydration caused by diarrhea. | ๐ง Add a pinch of electrolyte powder to water. |
Symptom Monitoring | Identifies whether further treatment is needed. | ๐พ Keep an eye on stool consistency. |
โ What Over-the-Counter Medications Are Safe for Dogs?
OTC medications can be used for mild cases, but only with veterinarian approval:
- Kaolin/Pectin (e.g., Kaopectate): These ingredients bind toxins in the gut and reduce diarrhea. Safe for most dogs.
- Loperamide (Imodium): Slows intestinal movement, allowing more water and nutrients to be absorbed. Use cautiously, as itโs not suitable for all breeds (e.g., Collies).
Medication | Why Itโs Effective | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Kaolin/Pectin | Binds toxins, firms up stools. | โ Administer 0.5โ1.0 ml per pound every 4โ6 hours. |
Loperamide | Slows motility, reduces stool frequency. | ๐ฉบ Avoid in herding breeds without vet approval. |
๐ฉบ What Prescription Medications Are Used for Diarrhea?
For more severe or chronic diarrhea, veterinarians may prescribe:
- Tylosin: An antibiotic for chronic diarrhea caused by bacterial imbalances, colitis, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
- Metronidazole: Commonly used for acute diarrhea and Giardia infections. Its anti-inflammatory properties also calm the gut.
Medication | When Itโs Prescribed | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Tylosin | For chronic diarrhea, colitis, or IBD. | โ Mix with food for easier administration. |
Metronidazole | For infections or acute inflammation. | ๐ฉบ Avoid prolonged use to prevent resistance. |
๐ฟ Can Probiotics Help with Dog Diarrhea?
Probiotics are highly effective for managing both acute and chronic diarrhea. They restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut and are especially helpful for stress-related diarrhea or after antibiotic use.
Probiotic | Why Itโs Beneficial | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
FortiFlora | Promotes gut health, reduces stool irregularity. | โ Use daily for ongoing digestive support. |
Plain Yogurt | Provides natural probiotics (if lactose-tolerant). | ๐พ Opt for unsweetened, plain varieties. |
Probiotic Powders | Easy to mix into food for better absorption. | ๐ฉบ Consult your vet for strain recommendations. |
โ ๏ธ When Should You See a Vet?
While mild diarrhea often resolves at home, certain signs indicate the need for immediate veterinary care:
- Persistent Diarrhea: Lasting more than 48 hours.
- Blood in Stool: Bright red or tarry black stools signal serious issues.
- Vomiting or Lethargy: Combined symptoms suggest a more severe underlying condition.
- Puppies or Senior Dogs: These dogs are more prone to dehydration and complications.
Symptom | Why Itโs Concerning | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Blood in Stool | Indicates potential infection or internal bleeding. | ๐ฉบ Seek immediate veterinary care. |
Lethargy/Vomiting | Suggests dehydration or systemic illness. | ๐ง Offer water and consult your vet promptly. |
Persistent Symptoms | Requires diagnostic tests and treatment. | โ Bring stool samples to your vet for analysis. |
๐ Can Diet Changes Alone Resolve Chronic Diarrhea?
Yes, for some dogs, long-term dietary adjustments can manage chronic diarrhea without medication. Hypoallergenic diets or limited-ingredient foods are often used for dogs with food sensitivities. Grain-free options may help if grains are the trigger.
Diet Type | Why It Works | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Hypoallergenic Diets | Reduces exposure to allergens. | โ Transition gradually to prevent new issues. |
Grain-Free Foods | Helps dogs with grain sensitivities. | ๐พ Pair with digestive enzymes for support. |
High-Fiber Diets | Regulates stool consistency. | ๐ฉบ Consult your vet for fiber recommendations. |
๐ก Expert Tips for Managing Diarrhea in Dogs
- Hydration is Key: Always ensure your dog is drinking enough water to prevent dehydration.
- Stick to a Schedule: Feed small, frequent meals rather than large portions during recovery.
- Monitor for Changes: Keep track of stool appearance and frequency to identify trends or triggers.
- Avoid Human Medications: Many human medications (e.g., Pepto-Bismol) are unsafe for dogs.
๐๏ธ Final Thoughts: Whatโs the Best Medication for Dogs with Diarrhea?
The best medication depends on the underlying cause of your dogโs diarrhea. For mild cases, dietary changes and OTC options like kaolin/pectin are effective. Chronic or severe diarrhea may require prescription medications like tylosin or metronidazole. Probiotics are an excellent adjunct to support gut health in both acute and long-term cases. Always consult your veterinarian for the safest and most effective treatment plan.
Quick Recap: Medications for Dog Diarrhea ๐
- First steps? ๐ถ Bland diet and hydration.
- OTC options? โ Kaolin/pectin and loperamide.
- Chronic cases? ๐ฉบ Tylosin or metronidazole (vet-prescribed).
- Probiotics? ๐ฟ Highly effective for gut health.
- When to see a vet? โ ๏ธ If diarrhea lasts more than 48 hours or includes blood.
๐พ Have more questions about managing your dogโs diarrhea? Letโs talk! ๐ถโจ
FAQs
๐ฌ Comment 1: โCan I give my dog human anti-diarrheal medication like Pepto-Bismol?โ
Short Answer: โ ๏ธ Only under veterinary guidance, as not all human medications are safe for dogs.
Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) can be used in certain cases for dogs to treat mild diarrhea, but it comes with risks. The salicylates in the medication can be toxic if overdosed, particularly in small breeds or dogs with preexisting conditions like liver disease. Additionally, it should never be used in pregnant dogs or those taking aspirin or NSAIDs. Always consult your vet before administering it.
Aspect | Why It May Be Used | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Mild Diarrhea Relief | Reduces irritation in the stomach lining. | โ Use only a vet-approved dose (1 tsp per 10 lbs). |
Toxic Risk | Salicylates can cause toxicity in high doses. | ๐ Avoid if your dog is on NSAIDs or aspirin. |
Stool Monitoring | May darken stools, masking serious issues. | ๐พ Track stool changes and consult a vet if unsure. |
๐ฌ Comment 2: โAre there natural remedies for dog diarrhea?โ
Short Answer: ๐ฟ Yes, natural remedies like pumpkin, probiotics, and a bland diet can help manage mild diarrhea.
For dogs with mild diarrhea, natural remedies can be effective without the need for medication. Pumpkin is rich in fiber, which helps regulate stool consistency, while probiotics restore gut balance. Bone broth can also soothe the digestive tract and provide hydration.
Remedy | Why It Helps | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Pumpkin | Adds soluble fiber to firm up stools. | ๐ Use plain, unsweetened canned pumpkin. |
Probiotics | Restores healthy gut bacteria. | โ Opt for dog-specific probiotics like FortiFlora. |
Bone Broth | Soothes the stomach and provides hydration. | ๐ฒ Serve warm and plain, without onions or garlic. |
๐ฌ Comment 3: โWhat should I do if my dog has diarrhea and wonโt drink water?โ
Short Answer: ๐ง Offer alternative hydration options like diluted chicken broth or ice cubes.
Dehydration is a serious concern for dogs with diarrhea, especially if they refuse to drink water. Try enticing them with low-sodium chicken broth or ice cubes. Pedialyte (unflavored) can also be used in small amounts to replenish electrolytes, but consult your vet first.
Hydration Method | Why It Works | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Chicken Broth | Adds flavor to encourage drinking. | โ Use only low-sodium, plain broth. |
Ice Cubes | Provides a gentle way to rehydrate. | ๐พ Offer crushed ice for easier consumption. |
Pedialyte | Replaces lost electrolytes. | ๐ฉบ Use unflavored and consult your vet for dosage. |
๐ฌ Comment 4: โCan diet changes cause diarrhea in dogs?โ
Short Answer: โ Yes, sudden changes in diet can upset your dogโs stomach and cause diarrhea.
Dogs require gradual transitions to new foods to avoid gastrointestinal upset. If the switch is too sudden, it can disrupt the gut microbiome, leading to diarrhea. Transition over 7โ10 days by gradually mixing the new food with the old one.
Aspect | Why Sudden Changes Cause Diarrhea | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Gut Microbiome | Abrupt changes disrupt bacterial balance. | โ Transition food over 7โ10 days. |
Fiber Levels | New diets may have more or less fiber. | ๐พ Choose a diet with similar fiber content to start. |
Protein Source | Unfamiliar proteins can trigger sensitivities. | ๐ฉบ Stick to known, digestible proteins. |
๐ฌ Comment 5: โIs diarrhea always a sign of a serious condition?โ
Short Answer: โ Not always, but persistent or severe diarrhea can indicate underlying health issues.
Mild diarrhea caused by stress, minor dietary indiscretion, or a sudden change in environment is usually not serious. However, chronic or severe diarrhea, especially with blood, lethargy, or vomiting, may point to infections, parasites, or chronic conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Type of Diarrhea | Possible Cause | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Mild, Acute | Stress, diet change, or minor food intolerance. | โ Monitor for 24โ48 hours before seeking care. |
Persistent | Parasites, IBD, or bacterial imbalance. | ๐ฉบ Consult a vet for diagnostic tests. |
Severe/Bloody | Infection, toxin ingestion, or internal bleeding. | โ ๏ธ Seek immediate veterinary attention. |
๐ฌ Comment 6: โAre there specific dog breeds prone to diarrhea?โ
Short Answer: ๐พ Yes, certain breeds like German Shepherds, Labradors, and small breeds are more prone to diarrhea.
German Shepherds are predisposed to exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), which affects digestion and can cause chronic diarrhea. Small breeds like Yorkies may experience stress-induced diarrhea, while Labs are known for dietary indiscretions that lead to digestive upset.
Breed | Why Theyโre Prone to Diarrhea | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
German Shepherds | Susceptible to EPI and IBD. | ๐ฉบ Regular vet check-ups for digestive health. |
Labradors | Prone to eating non-food items (dietary indiscretion). | โ Supervise outdoor activities to prevent ingestion. |
Small Breeds | More sensitive to stress or dietary changes. | ๐พ Feed consistent, high-quality diets. |
๐ฌ Comment 7: โWhat tests will my vet run for chronic diarrhea?โ
Short Answer: ๐ฉบ Diagnostic tests may include fecal exams, bloodwork, and imaging studies.
To determine the cause of chronic diarrhea, vets often perform a series of tests. A fecal examination identifies parasites like Giardia or worms. Blood tests can reveal infections or organ dysfunction, while imaging (X-rays or ultrasounds) checks for abnormalities in the gastrointestinal tract.
Test Type | What It Detects | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Fecal Exam | Parasites or bacterial overgrowth. | โ Provide a fresh stool sample for accuracy. |
Bloodwork | Checks liver, pancreas, and kidney function. | ๐ฉบ Include a full chemistry panel for comprehensive results. |
Imaging Studies | Detects blockages, tumors, or structural issues. | โ ๏ธ Follow up promptly on any abnormalities found. |
๐ฌ Comment 8: โCan stress cause diarrhea in dogs, and how can I manage it?โ
Short Answer: โ Yes, stress can trigger diarrhea in dogs, and managing stressors while providing supportive care is key.
Stress-induced diarrhea, also known as “stress colitis,” often occurs due to changes in routine, travel, loud noises, or introductions to new environments. Stress disrupts gut motility and microbiome balance, leading to loose stools. Addressing the root cause of stress and supporting gut health can help alleviate symptoms.
Stress Factor | How It Causes Diarrhea | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Routine Changes | Disrupts gut motility, causing loose stools. | โ Maintain a consistent feeding and walking schedule. |
Travel Anxiety | Alters microbiome due to stress hormones. | ๐พ Use calming aids like pheromone sprays or supplements. |
Loud Noises | Activates fight-or-flight response. | ๐ถ Play white noise or calming music during stressful events. |
๐ฌ Comment 9: โCan parasites cause diarrhea even if my dog is on preventive medications?โ
Short Answer: ๐พ Yes, some parasites can still infect dogs despite preventive measures.
While monthly preventatives like heartworm medications often cover certain intestinal parasites, they may not protect against all types, such as Giardia or whipworms. Parasites can still be contracted through contaminated water, soil, or feces. Routine fecal exams are crucial to detecting and treating these infections early.
Parasite | How It Causes Diarrhea | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Giardia | Damages intestinal lining, leading to soft stools. | โ Prevent exposure to standing water. |
Whipworms | Irritates the large intestine, causing chronic diarrhea. | ๐ฉบ Include whipworm tests in regular fecal exams. |
Roundworms | Compete for nutrients, leading to poor digestion. | ๐พ Deworm puppies and adult dogs as recommended. |
๐ฌ Comment 10: โAre certain dog foods more likely to cause diarrhea?โ
Short Answer: โ ๏ธ Yes, foods with excessive fat, artificial additives, or sudden changes in protein sources can cause diarrhea.
Highly processed foods, or diets with poor-quality fillers, can irritate the digestive system. Additionally, high-fat diets may overwhelm the pancreas, leading to loose stools. For dogs with sensitive stomachs, sticking to limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic diets is often best.
Food Issue | How It Causes Diarrhea | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
High Fat Content | Triggers digestive upset or pancreatitis. | โ Stick to low-fat diets for sensitive dogs. |
Additives/Fillers | Artificial flavors and colors irritate digestion. | ๐พ Choose natural, minimally processed foods. |
Sudden Protein Change | Disrupts gut bacteria balance. | ๐ฉบ Transition gradually over 7โ10 days. |
๐ฌ Comment 11: โCan dehydration worsen diarrhea in dogs?โ
Short Answer: ๐ง Yes, dehydration and diarrhea can create a vicious cycle, worsening both conditions.
Diarrhea leads to fluid and electrolyte loss, and dehydration can impair the digestive system’s ability to recover. Severely dehydrated dogs may require intravenous fluids to stabilize their condition. Ensuring hydration through water, broth, or veterinary-recommended electrolyte solutions is critical.
Aspect | How Dehydration Worsens Diarrhea | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Fluid Loss | Diarrhea reduces body water levels. | โ Provide small, frequent amounts of water. |
Electrolyte Imbalance | Impairs nutrient absorption and gut repair. | ๐ฉบ Use unflavored Pedialyte under vet guidance. |
Digestive Slowdown | Dehydration reduces gut function. | ๐ง Rehydrate with low-sodium chicken broth. |
๐ฌ Comment 12: โHow can I prevent diarrhea when switching dog food?โ
Short Answer: ๐ Transition gradually to avoid digestive upset caused by abrupt diet changes.
When introducing a new food, mix it with your dogโs current diet over 7โ10 days. Gradually increase the proportion of the new food while reducing the old. This allows the gut to adapt to changes in protein, fiber, and fat content, minimizing the risk of diarrhea.
Day | Old Food to New Food Ratio | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Days 1โ3 | 75% old food, 25% new food. | โ Monitor stool consistency daily. |
Days 4โ6 | 50% old food, 50% new food. | ๐พ Avoid adding treats or extras during the transition. |
Days 7โ10 | 25% old food, 75% new food. | ๐ฉบ Fully switch only if stools remain firm. |
๐ฌ Comment 13: โWhatโs the difference between acute and chronic diarrhea in dogs?โ
Short Answer: ๐ฉบ Acute diarrhea is sudden and often resolves quickly, while chronic diarrhea persists and may indicate an underlying health issue.
Acute diarrhea typically results from minor dietary indiscretions or temporary stress. Chronic diarrhea, lasting more than three weeks, often requires deeper investigation, as it may signal conditions like IBD, parasites, or food allergies.
Type of Diarrhea | Characteristics | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Acute Diarrhea | Sudden onset, resolves in 1โ2 days. | โ Provide bland diet and monitor hydration. |
Chronic Diarrhea | Lasts longer than three weeks, often recurring. | ๐ฉบ Seek vet care for diagnostics and treatment. |
Recurrent Acute | Intermittent episodes triggered by diet/stress. | ๐พ Identify and eliminate potential triggers. |
๐ฌ Comment 14: โCan diarrhea in dogs ever be life-threatening?โ
Short Answer: โ ๏ธ Yes, severe or untreated diarrhea can lead to life-threatening complications like dehydration or shock.
Prolonged diarrhea, particularly in puppies or senior dogs, can result in rapid fluid loss, electrolyte imbalances, and severe dehydration. Bloody diarrhea or other symptoms like lethargy and vomiting may indicate serious conditions such as hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE) or toxin ingestion. Immediate veterinary care is essential in such cases.
Condition | Why Itโs Dangerous | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
HGE (Hemorrhagic) | Causes severe bloody diarrhea and dehydration. | ๐ฉบ Immediate vet care and IV fluids are critical. |
Toxin Ingestion | Damages the GI tract and causes systemic illness. | โ Keep all harmful substances out of reach. |
Puppies/Seniors | Higher risk due to lower fluid reserves. | ๐ง Monitor hydration closely and act quickly. |
๐ฌ Comment 15: โCan probiotics alone resolve diarrhea in dogs?โ
Short Answer: ๐ฟ Probiotics can be highly effective for mild cases of diarrhea but are usually best used alongside other treatments.
Probiotics restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which is often disrupted during episodes of diarrhea. They are particularly helpful for stress-related diarrhea, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, and mild gastrointestinal upset. However, severe or persistent diarrhea usually requires additional interventions, such as medication or dietary adjustments.
Aspect | Why Probiotics Help | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Gut Balance | Restores healthy bacteria, aiding digestion. | โ Use vet-approved probiotics like FortiFlora. |
Anti-Inflammatory | Reduces gut inflammation caused by imbalances. | ๐ฉบ Combine with a bland diet for optimal results. |
Mild Cases | Resolves stress or diet-induced diarrhea. | ๐พ Monitor stool changes and adjust dosage if needed. |
๐ฌ Comment 16: โCan fasting help resolve diarrhea in dogs?โ
Short Answer: ๐ Yes, fasting for 12โ24 hours can allow the digestive system to rest and recover, but only for adult dogs in good health.
Fasting helps by reducing the load on the gastrointestinal tract, allowing it to calm down and repair itself. After fasting, gradually introduce a bland diet, such as boiled chicken and rice. Avoid fasting puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with underlying health issues, as they may be more prone to dehydration or hypoglycemia.
Aspect | Why Fasting Helps | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Rest for Gut | Stops continuous irritation from food. | โ Limit fasting to 12 hours for smaller dogs. |
Eases Recovery | Prepares the stomach for bland food. | ๐พ Always provide access to fresh water. |
Not for Vulnerable Dogs | Risk of dehydration or low blood sugar. | ๐ฉบ Consult a vet before fasting if unsure. |
๐ฌ Comment 17: โCan certain fruits or vegetables worsen diarrhea?โ
Short Answer: โ ๏ธ Yes, certain fruits and vegetables high in fiber, sugar, or acidity can exacerbate diarrhea.
While some fruits and vegetables, like pumpkin or sweet potato, are beneficial, others may worsen diarrhea. High-sugar fruits like grapes (toxic to dogs) or watermelon can irritate the gut. Fibrous vegetables like broccoli or cabbage can cause gas and loose stools. Always feed gut-friendly, low-fiber options in moderation.
Food | Why It Can Worsen Diarrhea | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
High-Sugar Fruits | Increases gut fermentation and irritation. | ๐ Avoid grapes, watermelon, or sugary treats. |
Fibrous Veggies | Causes gas and bloating, worsening loose stools. | โ Use cooked carrots or zucchini instead. |
Citrus Fruits | High acidity irritates the stomach lining. | ๐พ Stick to non-acidic options like bananas. |
๐ฌ Comment 18: โWhat if diarrhea persists even with medication?โ
Short Answer: ๐ฉบ Persistent diarrhea despite treatment requires advanced diagnostic tests to identify the underlying cause.
If diarrhea does not improve with standard treatments, it may indicate chronic conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), or parasites that are resistant to initial therapies. Your vet may recommend bloodwork, fecal cultures, imaging (X-rays or ultrasounds), or biopsies for a comprehensive evaluation.
Test Type | What It Can Detect | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Blood Tests | Identifies systemic infections or organ issues. | ๐ฉบ Request a full panel, including pancreas markers. |
Ultrasounds | Detects structural abnormalities in the GI tract. | โ Fast your dog before imaging for clearer results. |
Fecal Cultures | Identifies resistant bacterial or parasitic infections. | ๐พ Bring a fresh stool sample to your vet. |
๐ฌ Comment 19: โCan feeding raw diets cause diarrhea in dogs?โ
Short Answer: ๐พ Yes, improperly prepared raw diets can introduce harmful bacteria or imbalances that lead to diarrhea.
Raw diets can be nutritious when properly balanced and prepared, but they come with risks. Contamination from Salmonella or E. coli can upset the digestive system and cause diarrhea. Additionally, diets that are too high in fat or deficient in fiber can lead to gastrointestinal issues.
Aspect | How Raw Diets Cause Diarrhea | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Bacterial Contamination | Introduces harmful pathogens into the gut. | โ Use only fresh, high-quality, properly handled ingredients. |
Nutritional Imbalance | Lacks fiber or contains excessive fat. | ๐ฉบ Consult a vet or nutritionist for a balanced raw plan. |
Improper Transition | Abruptly switching to raw food causes upset. | ๐พ Transition over 7โ10 days to prevent diarrhea. |
๐ฌ Comment 20: โIs diarrhea in puppies more serious than in adult dogs?โ
Short Answer: ๐ผ Yes, puppies are more vulnerable to dehydration and complications from diarrhea due to their smaller size and developing immune systems.
Puppies dehydrate faster than adult dogs, making even mild diarrhea potentially dangerous. Infections like parvovirus or intestinal parasites are common causes and require immediate veterinary care. Always monitor puppy diarrhea closely and act quickly to prevent severe consequences.
Aspect | Why Itโs More Serious in Puppies | ๐ก Tip |
---|---|---|
Dehydration Risk | Puppies have smaller fluid reserves. | โ Offer small amounts of water frequently. |
Weaker Immunity | Infections can progress rapidly. | ๐ฉบ Seek immediate care if diarrhea persists or worsens. |
Nutritional Needs | Diarrhea affects growth and development. | ๐พ Use a vet-prescribed diet for recovery. |