My dog has an upset stomach, what should I feed it? - briefly
When your dog has an upset stomach, it's best to feed them a bland diet consisting of boiled chicken and rice. Avoid giving them dairy products or fatty foods as they can exacerbate the issue.
My dog has an upset stomach, what should I feed it? - in detail
When your dog is experiencing an upset stomach, it's crucial to address their diet carefully to avoid exacerbating the issue and to support their recovery. Here are some guidelines on what to feed your dog during this period:
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Restrict Food Intake: Initially, withhold food for 12-24 hours to allow your dog's stomach to settle. This fasting period can help reduce vomiting and diarrhea. However, ensure your dog has access to clean water throughout this time to prevent dehydration.
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Gradual Reintroduction: After the initial fasting period, gradually reintroduce food in small amounts over several meals. Start with a bland diet that is easy on the stomach and can help soothe irritation.
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Bland Diet Options: Common options for a bland diet include:
- Boiled Chicken and Rice: Cook chicken breast without any seasoning or oil, and mix it with boiled white rice in a 50/50 ratio. This combination is easily digestible and provides necessary nutrients.
- Pumpkin: Plain canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) can be beneficial due to its high fiber content, which can help regulate bowel movements. Ensure it's unsweetened and unseasoned.
- Sweet Potato: Cooked sweet potato is another good option for providing nutrients without irritating the stomach.
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Avoid Rich Foods: Steer clear of fatty, spicy, or dairy-based foods as they can further upset your dog's stomach. This includes anything that might contain excessive fats, oils, or seasonings.
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Hydration is Key: Ensure your dog stays hydrated by providing plenty of fresh water. You can also offer ice chips or diluted, low-sodium chicken broth to help replenish electrolytes lost through vomiting and diarrhea.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close eye on your dog's symptoms during the recovery period. If vomiting or diarrhea persist for more than 24 hours despite a bland diet, or if you notice any signs of lethargy, weakness, or blood in the stool, consult your veterinarian immediately.
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Transitional Diet: Once your dog's symptoms have subsided and they are keeping their food down, gradually transition them back to their regular diet over a period of 3-5 days. Mix increasing amounts of their normal food with decreasing amounts of the bland diet until they are fully back on their usual meals.
By following these guidelines, you can help your dog recover from an upset stomach while minimizing further discomfort and ensuring they get the necessary nutrients to support their health.