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As pet owners, one of the most common and distressing issues we face is when our dogs have an acute onset of diarrhea. (Acute in this context is defined as less than 7 days duration.) While it’s a common problem, the approach to treating it, especially with antibiotics, is often debated. The European Network for Optimization of Veterinary Antimicrobial Therapy (ENOVAT) recently released new guidelines on this topic, which can help veterinarians and pet owners make better-informed decisions about when antibiotics are truly necessary. These guidelines were based on patients experiencing acute episodes of diarrhea which were further classified into groups of those with mild, moderate, and severe disease
When Antibiotics Aren’t Needed: Acute Diarrhea with Mild Disease
The ENOVAT guidelines highlight that for most patients, whom are otherwise in good body condition with no evidence of systemic disease, exhibiting mild cases of acute diarrhea, whether bloody or not, antibiotics are not recommended.. The guidelines state that the clinical resolution and duration of the diarrhea were significantly different in those treated with antibiotics compared to those which were not. Using antibiotics unnecessarily can lead to potential side effects, disrupt the patient’s gut flora, also known as the microbiome, and even contribute to antibiotic resistance—a problem that affects both human and animal health.
When Antibiotics Aren’t Needed: Acute Diarrhea with Moderate Disease
In cases of acute diarrhea, whether bloody or not, where patients experience moderate disease, defined as compromised general condition and secondary effects related to dehydration,, ENOVAT still recommends against the use of antibiotics. Instead, supportive care, such as hospitalization and ensuring proper rehydration, along with close monitoring for any signs of disease progression can be effective. The exception to this recommendation is if any patient is exhibiting evidence of overwhelming systemic inflammation in their lab work, then antibiotics may be warranted.
When Antibiotics May Be Necessary: Acute Diarrhea with Severe Disease
For more severe cases of acute diarrhea, where the patient exhibits systemic symptoms like shock, fever, or significant lethargy, ENOVAT suggests that antibiotics might be beneficial. In these severe cases, it is hard to differentiate which patients will or will not benefit from antibiotic use. However, antibiotics are often used in these cases to avoid the risk of disease progression to sepsis or other serious bacterial infections. . Depending on the severity of the disease, the type of antibiotic used and the route of administration will vary between patients. . The guidelines advise close monitoring and only administering antibiotics for the shortest effective duration, generally between three to seven days.
What About Probiotics?
ENOVAT’s guidelines are neutral on using probiotics for acute diarrhea, as the evidence is mixed. However, one probiotic that’s gained attention in the veterinary community is Visbiome Vet. This probiotic formulation contains high-potency strains specifically designed to support gastrointestinal health in pets.
While ENOVAT does not specifically endorse any particular probiotic, Visbiome Vet’s high concentration of beneficial bacteria may offer extra support during or after a diarrhea episode. However, as with any supplement, it’s best to discuss with your veterinarian whether Visbiome Vet is suitable for your dog’s specific condition and needs.
Takeaways for Pet Owners
- Mild and moderate cases of acute diarrhea rarely require antibiotics and often resolve with supportive care.
- Severe diarrhea may sometimes need antibiotics, but only under veterinary supervision and for the shortest duration possible.
- The unnecessary use of antibiotics can lead to adverse effects, such as alterations in the gastrointestinal microbiome and contribute to antibiotic resistance
- Probiotics may help, but their effects are not consistent, This supplement is optional and should be considered on a case-by-case basis under the discretion of a veterinarian.
These guidelines are a valuable resource for veterinarians and pet owners alike. By following them, we can help ensure that our pets get the care they need while minimizing unnecessary treatments and adverse effects. If your dog is experiencing diarrhea, talk with your vet about the best approach based on these updated recommendations.