Diarrhea is a common symptom when it comes to animals and is usually short lived. Generally there is nothing to be be alarmed about as it can happen from time to time. However, it is important as pet parents that we know the common causes of diarrhea in animals. These include:
- Eating food that is not suitable, rotten, infected or too rich
- Sudden and fast dietary changes
- Chemicals like insecticides, weed killers or those found around the home
- Food intolerances or allergies
- Foreign bodies that have been ingested
- Medications (steroids, anti-inflammatories, de-wormers, antibiotics)
- Infections (worms, bacteria, viral)
- Diseases (colitis, cancer, IBD, kidney disease, Addison’s disease, pancreatic disorders)
- Emotional upset
If diarrhea is prolonged we naturally want to minimize this to help prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. We want to help stop the diarrhea, but also sooth and protect the digestive tract lining from the irritating cause. The following herbs work well which include:
- Plantain
- Slippery Elm
If the diarrhea is severe, short term use of the following herbs can help along with slippery elm or marshmallow to help buffer the tannins to avoid irritating the digestive lining, these herbs below should only be used for a day. These herbs include:
- Raspberry Leaf
- Meadow sweet (this must NOT be given to cats or any animal that has an aspirin sensitivity.
Diarrhea is also a common symptom when an animal is experiencing emotional upset since the brain and the gut have a strong connection. 99% of the neurotransmitters are found in the colon. The following herbs can be quite helpful since they support the digestive and nervous system:
- Catnip
- Germain Chamomile (note that some animals are sensitive to this plant)
Consult with a holistic veterinarian or holistic practitioner to lead you in the right direction. If you feel uncertain, holistic practitioners have the expertise and wisdom to direct you to top quality herbal products for your animal. Do not use any remedies if you are not certain which and how to use them, it is best to work with a practitioner.
If you are interested holistic services from Maria for your animal feel free to learn more here.
