Sensitive Stomachs

This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.

Top rated dog foods for sensitive digestion. Limited ingredient diets, easily digestible proteins, and feeding tips for GI-sensitive dogs.

Sensitive Stomachs — photograph of a dog

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Where can I learn more?

New vomiting or diarrhea starts with a fecal test and an exam, which the Companion Animal Parasite Council guidelines put ahead of a diet guess. A diet trial for chronic enteropathy comes after parasites and other causes.

How often should I take my pet to the vet?

New vomiting or diarrhea is a visit, especially in a puppy, who is also examined every 3 to 4 weeks until about 16 weeks for vaccines and fecal tests. A sensitive-stomach kibble is one possible tool after that visit. Adult dogs with a quiet stomach still need at least a yearly exam. Dogs from about 7 years, giant breeds earlier, with a touchy stomach are seen about every six months. Blood in the stool, a tight swollen abdomen, or a dog who cannot keep water down is the emergency form of the same question.

How can I save money on pet care?

Rotating through sensitive-stomach bags is several diets and no trial. Pay for the fecal test and the visit first. If a diet trial is the next step, buy one food and feed nothing else for the period the clinic sets. The bags you did not open are the savings. Blood in the stool, or a dog who cannot keep water down, needs a veterinarian the same day.

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