Vomiting and diarrhea are some of the most common reasons pet owners seek veterinary care. While an occasional upset stomach may not be cause for concern, persistent symptoms can signal a serious underlying issue. In some cases, dehydration or internal complications can develop quickly, making emergency or urgent care necessary.
At i-Care Veterinary Hospital, we offer same-day urgent care services to diagnose and treat pets experiencing vomiting, diarrhea, and other sudden health concerns. Here’s how to determine whether your pet’s symptoms require immediate veterinary attention.
Common Causes of Vomiting and Diarrhea in Pets
There are many reasons pets may experience vomiting or diarrhea, ranging from mild digestive upset to serious medical conditions. Some common causes include:
- 🐾 Dietary Indiscretion – Eating spoiled food, garbage, or non-food items.
- 🐾 Sudden Diet Changes – Switching foods too quickly can cause stomach upset.
- 🐾 Parasites – Intestinal worms and protozoa can lead to chronic diarrhea.
- 🐾 Infections – Viral or bacterial infections like parvovirus or salmonella.
- 🐾 Toxins – Ingesting human medications, toxic plants, or household chemicals.
- 🐾 Food Allergies or Sensitivities – Some pets react poorly to specific ingredients.
- 🐾 Foreign Objects – Swallowing toys, bones, or fabric can lead to an obstruction.
- 🐾 Organ Disease – Kidney disease, liver disease, or pancreatitis can cause GI symptoms.
When to Seek Emergency or Urgent Care for Vomiting or Diarrhea
A single episode of vomiting or diarrhea may not be an emergency, but multiple episodes or additional symptoms could indicate a more serious problem. Contact i-Care Veterinary Hospital if your pet is experiencing:
- 🚨 Frequent vomiting or diarrhea – Multiple episodes in a short period can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
- 🚨 Blood in vomit or stool – Bright red blood or dark, tarry stools could signal internal bleeding or infection.
- 🚨 Severe lethargy or weakness – If your pet is unresponsive, disoriented, or unable to stand, seek immediate care.
- 🚨 Signs of dehydration – Dry gums, sunken eyes, excessive panting, or reluctance to drink water.
- 🚨 Abdominal pain or bloating – Crying, restlessness, a hunched posture, or a hard, swollen abdomen could indicate an emergency.
- 🚨 Vomiting or diarrhea after toxin ingestion – If your pet may have eaten chocolate, xylitol, medications, or household chemicals, seek urgent care immediately.
- 🚨 Inability to keep food or water down – If vomiting continues even after withholding food, your pet may need medical intervention.
- 🚨 Pre-existing conditions – Pets with diabetes, kidney disease, or pancreatitis are more vulnerable to serious complications.
What to Expect During an Urgent Care Visit at i-Care
Our urgent care services ensure your pet gets the care they need as quickly as possible. Here’s what happens when you bring your pet in for vomiting or diarrhea:
- ✅ Thorough Examination – We’ll assess your pet’s symptoms, hydration level, and overall condition.
- ✅ Diagnostic Testing – Bloodwork, fecal exams, X-rays, and ultrasound help us determine the cause.
- ✅ Fluid Therapy – If your pet is dehydrated, IV fluids help restore hydration and electrolytes.
- ✅ Medications – Anti-nausea medication, pain relief, or antibiotics may be prescribed.
- ✅ Dietary Management – We may recommend a bland diet or prescription food to support recovery.
- ✅ Monitoring & Follow-Up – Our team will provide at-home care instructions and schedule any necessary follow-up visits.
Caring for Your Pet at Home
If your pet has a mild upset stomach, try these home care tips before heading to the vet:
- 🐾 Withhold food for 12–24 hours – Give the stomach time to settle (but always provide water!).
- 🐾 Feed a bland diet – Start with boiled chicken and rice before transitioning back to regular food.
- 🐾 Encourage hydration – Offer small amounts of water or unflavoured electrolyte solutions.
- 🐾 Monitor symptoms – If vomiting or diarrhea worsens or persists, call us right away.
- 🐾 Avoid human medications – Over-the-counter drugs can be toxic to pets—never medicate without veterinary guidance.
When in Doubt—Call Us for Urgent Care
Vomiting and diarrhea can escalate quickly, especially in puppies, kittens, and senior pets. If you’re unsure whether your pet needs emergency or urgent care, call i-Care Veterinary Hospital immediately.
📞 Call us for urgent care or to determine if emergency care is needed: 250-947-9364
🌐 Visit our website to learn more or book an appointment.
Your pet’s health is our top priority—we’re here to help them feel better, fast!