What are the symptoms of diarrhoea?

Soft, liquid or very frequent stools. Sometimes with mucus, blood or an abnormal colour. Urgency to defecate. Possible lethargy or abdominal pain depending on the cause

Is Diarrhoea contagious?

Diarrhoea does not spread directly between animals.

Digestivas

Diarrhoea

Soft or liquid stools, passed more often than normal. It is a symptom, not a disease: it can be trivial or a sign of something serious. In rabbits, true diarrhoea is ALWAYS an emergency.

Mild🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats🐰 Rabbits

Symptoms to watch for

• Soft, liquid or very frequent stools
• Sometimes with mucus, blood or an abnormal colour
• Urgency to defecate
• Possible lethargy or abdominal pain depending on the cause

Causes

A change in diet, parasites, infections, food intolerance, stress, eating something inappropriate, or chronic diseases. In rabbits it can indicate a serious digestive problem.

Diagnosis

In mild cases none is needed. If it persists: faecal analysis, blood tests and further tests depending on the suspected cause.

Treatment

Dogs/cats, mild cases: bland diet, hydration, probiotics. If an identifiable cause is present, treat it. RABBITS: true diarrhoea is an immediate veterinary emergency.

Prevention

Gradual dietary changes, up-to-date deworming, preventing access to rubbish, and a good-quality diet.

When should you see the vet?

URGENT if: there is blood, it lasts more than 48h, there is marked lethargy, it is a puppy/kitten or a senior, or it is a RABBIT (in rabbits any true diarrhoea is an emergency).

Consult a vet

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.