Gilroy Veterinary Hospital

Diarrhea and Vomiting

-In laymans terms we call it "the runs" and "puking". This is probably close to the most common ailments veterinarians see.

What to do: - Remove all food and water.

If your dog or cat is acting normal and is active, or is just a bit off, then these symptoms are mild and may pass in 24 hours. If your pet is acting sick or is puking and pooping alot, make an appointment to take him or her in to our clinic or the emergency clinic ( Unvaccinated puppies may vomit and have bloody diarrhea due to a potentially fatal parvo virus vaccination.)
Try a pepcid tablet and some Immodium AD for mild nausea and diarrhea. The dosage for pepcid is one tablet for 20 lbs daily. The dosage for Imodium is one tablet for each 30 lbs three times daily.
Hold off food and water till signs improve and there is no vomiting or diarrhea for 6-8 hours.
Then try feeding a SMALL portion of chicken baby food, 1/4 cup rice, 1/4 portion of normal diet after the fasting
If vomiting occurs, hold off any food or water again for 6-8 hours, medicate with pepcid again or take to a vet if signs are worse or you pet looks sick.
Give 1 tablespoon of pedialyte, gatorade, or water every hour or two for each ten pound of body weight( eg. 3 tbsp for 30 lbs) to replace the water and electrolytes lost puking and pooping. Remember your pet is not taking in water, and is losing more than normal and can dehydrate fast if very young or old.
Vomiting and diarrhea are associated with a host of problems which are referred to collectively as gastroenteritis. Some cases are quite severe (e.g., poisoning), and some are not (e.g., dietary indiscretion).

If your pet is not feeling well and has vomiting and/or diarrhea, he should see a veterinarian.