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Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the stomach and intestines causing vomiting and/or diarrhea. It is a collective term for many GI problems ranging from mild dietary indiscretion to severe poisoning.
Key Facts
- Remove all food and water initially; wait 6-8 hours without vomiting before offering fluids
- Rehydrate with small amounts of clear liquids (water, Pedialyte): 1 tsp per pound every 2-3 hours
- Bland diet (boiled chicken and rice) once fluids are tolerated
- If fever is present, infection may be the cause
- Most infectious causes are contagious to other pets
- Can quickly lead to serious fluid loss and electrolyte imbalance
- Very young, old, and immunocompromised animals are at highest risk
- Species: dogs and cats