Let’s be honest: no one likes dealing with a mess on the carpet, or worse, seeing their pet sick and uncomfortable. If your dog or cat is suddenly vomiting or having diarrhea, it’s natural to feel worried. And while an occasional upset tummy isn’t unusual, sometimes it’s a sign you should take action.
As a pet parent in Vancouver, it’s important to know when it’s okay to wait it out and when you should pick up the phone and call your vet.
Why Is This Happening?
Vomiting and diarrhea in pets are symptoms — not a disease themselves. They can be triggered by everything from a simple dietary slip-up to serious health issues.
Common causes we see here at Renfrew Animal Hospital include:
- Dietary indiscretion (aka eating something they shouldn’t — like garbage, grass, or people food)
- Sudden diet changes
- Parasites (roundworms, giardia — especially common in outdoor-loving Vancouver pets)
- Viral or bacterial infections
- Toxin ingestion (like chocolate, onions, grapes, or certain plants)
- Chronic diseases (kidney disease, pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease)
Did you know? A 2023 Canadian Veterinary Journal study found that up to 30% of dog vet visits are related to gastrointestinal issues, making it one of the most common reasons pet owners seek help. It’s not just your pet — it happens more than you think!
When Should You Worry?
We always tell pet parents: it’s better to be cautious than regretful. Here’s when you should contact a vet immediately:
- Blood in vomit or stool (bright red or coffee-ground appearance)
- Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours
- Severe lethargy or collapse
- Pale gums or signs of dehydration (sticky gums, sunken eyes, weakness)
- Repeated attempts to vomit with nothing coming up
- If your pet is a puppy, kitten, senior, or has a chronic illness
These cases can turn serious fast. If you notice any of these signs, call Renfrew Animal Hospital right away at 778-737-1600. We’re here to help.
What You Can Do at Home (for Mild Cases)
If your pet’s acting fairly normal — still playful, drinking water, and the vomiting/diarrhea is mild — you can try a few things at home:
1. Hold off food for 8–12 hours
Let their stomach rest. Keep fresh, clean water available.
2. Reintroduce bland food
After fasting, offer small amounts of bland food like:
- Boiled, skinless chicken
- Plain, cooked white rice
(For cats — a little plain cooked chicken or their regular food watered down)
3. Monitor closely
Track their water intake, energy, appetite, and stool/vomit appearance. If things improve within 24 hours, great. If not, it’s time to give us a call.
Parasites, Toxins, and Vancouver Risks
Living in an active, outdoor-loving city like Vancouver, pets often get exposed to more than just city life. From drinking puddle water to sniffing wildlife droppings, parasites like giardia or bacteria like Salmonella can sneak their way in.
Fun (gross) fact: The BC Centre for Disease Control reported giardia is one of the most common parasitic infections in BC, affecting both humans and pets. It spreads easily through contaminated water or soil — a risk in local parks and hiking trails.
If your dog or cat has frequent tummy troubles, it might be worth checking for parasites with a simple fecal test — something we routinely handle at Renfrew Animal Hospital.
How We Can Help at Renfrew Animal Hospital
When pets come in for vomiting or diarrhea, here’s what we typically do:
- Physical exam
Check for dehydration, abdominal pain, fever, and other warning signs. - Fecal analysis
Look for parasites, bacteria, or abnormal cells. - Blood tests
Check organ function, electrolytes, and rule out more serious illnesses. - Fluids & medications
Rehydration, anti-nausea meds, and sometimes probiotics or antibiotics if needed.
Our team handles cases like this every single day. We understand how stressful it can be and are always happy to explain what’s going on, in plain language.
Don’t Hesitate — Call Us
If you’re ever unsure whether your pet’s vomiting or diarrhea is serious, don’t Google your way into panic mode. Pick up the phone and give Renfrew Animal Hospital a call at 778-737-1600.
Even if it’s just to get peace of mind — we’re here for that too.
Whether it’s a bit of bad kibble, a parasite from a muddy trail, or something they scavenged in the park, if your pet’s tummy is in trouble, you know what to do now.
We’ve got your back.
