Symptomatic Dietary Treatment for Diarrhea or Vomiting

Read our veterinarians' immediate recommendations of treatment for diarrhea or vomiting in pets.

Withhold all food for 24 hours from last time food was ingested.

  • No treats or table food should be given, even if your pet is acting hungry.

Withhold water for 12 hours.

  • After 12 hours, give water in small amounts, intermittently until thirst is satisfied. Do not allow your pet to engorge on water.

Start food after 24 hours, this should be a bland diet. Either boiled chicken and rice, baby food (Gerber chicken, first foods), or Hill’s i/d (available at SVAH), or similar can be given.

  • Start by feeding a few bites only. If this is eaten, wait about 15 minutes, then offer a small amount again. Wait about 1 hour then offer a little more. If diarrhea or vomiting does not occur, feed 1/2 of the regular amount fed about 4-5 hours after the initial feedings. Regular food is reintroduced the next day. Begin by feeding 1/4-1/2 the normal amount working up to the full amount.

If any medication is needed, give according to directions. If advised, the medication can be given while withholding food.

If your pet is not getting better quickly, please have them rechecked. Pets that respond to a bland diet usually do so within 24 hours. Do not wait it out to see if they will get better! Further supportive care may be needed. Contact us now if you need assistance.

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