Caring for your pet after gastrointestinal treatment

One of the most commons symptoms seen in our pets is gastrointestinal signs such as vomiting and diarrhoea. This can be a result of a stomach bug, a dietary condition or a medical issue.

If your pet has recently been hospitalised for treatment of gastrointestinal symptoms, our team will provide you all the necessary guidance for their care and condition when they are discharged. In the days following their stay, it is important to make sure they have a calm, quiet environment where they can rest and sleep to help their recouperation. You may also choose to limit their activity until they are fully recovered.

Ongoing monitoring is important following your pet being discharged from our care. Keep a close eye on them, monitoring for any further vomiting or diarrhoea episodes, or any other signs they are unwell. Ensure there is plenty of water to encourage them to drink and stay hydrated. Wet food may be a good idea, to keep up their hydration level, however check with your vet in first instance to ensure this is appropriate for your pet. Otherwise, if they are on dry kibble food, you could add water or low salt stock to help improve their hydration levels.

It is generally recommended to introduce food gradually after gastrointestinal treatment, and it is also a good idea to feed bland food such as poached chicken or a specialised gastrointestinal diet. These diets are available from the surgery for you to purchase.

If you notice your pet is lethargic, upset, agitated or restless, they may be experiencing pain.

Should you be worried about your pet and their symptoms after they have been discharged, please contact the practice to discuss your pet’s care.