Our senior fur babies tend to have very sensitive stomachs. They have to eat specific foods, can have only certain snacks and even the slightest changes in their diets cause them to have stomach and potty issues.
For some reason, and despite our best efforts, they also like to regularly taste grass in the back yard and during walks around the neighborhood. It happens so often we like to call our dogs little cows! Ours do that regardless of how they are feeling but, in many cases, eating grass can be a sign your senior dog isn't feeling well.
Many of you already know this but, as dogs age, they become more prone to a variety of health problems, including upset stomachs. In fact, an upset stomach is one of the most common issues that senior dogs face. A senior dog upset stomach can be caused by a variety of factors, including changes in diet, medication, or illness (more on these issues below). If your senior dog is struggling with an upset stomach, it's important to understand the causes and how to treat it.
Before exploring the reasons for your senior dog's upset stomach, it is important to note that you should talk to your vet immediately if your fur baby is having stomach issues. While it could be something minor, your senior dog could have a serious underlying medical issue and only your vet will be able to make that determination.
Now, let's dive into everything related to why senior dogs have upset stomachs!
Symptoms of an Upset Stomach in Senior Dogs
Loss of Appetite
Senior dogs can experience a loss of appetite for a variety of reasons, including dental problems, gastrointestinal issues, and underlying medical conditions.
If your senior dog is not eating, it is important to consult with your vet to determine the underlying cause. Your vet may instruct you to change your dog's diet, offer smaller and more frequent meals, or prescribe medication to stimulate their appetite.
Additionally, it is important to monitor your dog's water intake and ensure they are drinking enough to avoid dehydration. You can also try offering your dog foods that are more palatable or warming up their food to enhance the aroma.
If your senior dog continues to refuse food, your vet may recommend further diagnostic tests to rule out any serious health issues. It is crucial to address loss of appetite in senior dogs promptly to ensure they are getting the necessary nutrients to maintain their health and wellbeing.
Vomiting
If your senior dog is experiencing an upset stomach and vomiting, it's important to take action immediately.
First, withhold food and water for a few hours to let their stomach settle.
If they continue to vomit, try feeding them bland, easy-to-digest foods like boiled chicken and rice. You can also try giving them small amounts of water or ice cubes to help keep them hydrated.
However, if your dog is still vomiting after 24 hours, or if they show other signs of illness like lethargy or loss of appetite, it's crucial to seek veterinary care. These symptoms could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as kidney or liver disease. Remember, senior dogs are more prone to health problems, so it's important to monitor their health closely and seek medical attention when necessary.
Diarrhea
If your senior dog is experiencing an upset stomach and diarrhea, it can be a cause for concern. It is important to first identify the underlying cause of the issue.
Senior dogs are more susceptible to digestive problems due to their age and weakened immune system. It is best to consult with a vet to determine the root cause and receive proper treatment.
In the meantime, you can help your dog by withholding food for 12-24 hours to allow their stomach to settle. Provide plenty of fresh water to keep them hydrated.
When reintroducing food, offer a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice in small portions. Avoid giving them table scraps or treats that can further upset their stomach.
It is important to monitor their condition and seek veterinary care if their symptoms persist or worsen. With proper care and attention, your senior dog can recover from an upset stomach and diarrhea.
Lethargy
If you have a senior dog experiencing upset stomach and lethargy, it is important to take action immediately. The first step is to monitor your dog's symptoms and keep track of any changes in behavior.
It is crucial to provide your dog with plenty of water to keep them hydrated. You may also want to consider feeding them small, bland meals to help ease their stomach.
If the symptoms persist, consult with your vet as soon as possible. Your vet will be able to perform a physical examination and run tests to identify the cause of the symptoms.
They may also recommend a change in diet or prescribe medication to alleviate the discomfort. Remember, senior dogs are more susceptible to health issues, so it's important to keep a close eye on their well-being and seek medical attention if needed.
Excessive Drooling
If your senior dog is experiencing an upset stomach that's causing excessive drooling, it's important to take action right away.
First, remove any food or treats from their reach and limit their water intake for a few hours. This will give their stomach a chance to settle and prevent further irritation.
You should also try to identify the cause of the upset stomach. It could be due to a change in diet, eating something they shouldn't have, or an underlying health issue.
If the symptoms persist, it's best to consult with your vet for further evaluation. In the meantime, you can offer your dog small amounts of water or ice cubes to help soothe their throat and mouth.
Additionally, you can try feeding them a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice to help ease their stomach and alleviate their discomfort. Remember to monitor your dog's behavior and seek veterinary care if their symptoms worsen or persist.
Abdominal Pain
If your senior dog is experiencing an upset stomach and abdominal pain, it is important to take action quickly. The first step is to identify the cause of the discomfort. Common causes include dietary indiscretion, infections, pancreatitis, or tumors.
Once you have identified the cause, you can take appropriate steps to alleviate the pain and discomfort. Try to get your dog to rest and limit their physical activity, and provide them with a bland diet that is easy to digest. You can also give them over-the-counter medication such as Pepcid AC or Imodium, but only under the guidance of your vet.
It is important to monitor your dog's symptoms closely and seek veterinary care if the symptoms persist or worsen. Remember, senior dogs are more susceptible to health issues, so it is crucial to provide them with the proper care and attention they need to live a healthy and comfortable life.
Causes of Upset Stomach in Senior Dogs
Changes in Diet
As our senior furry companions age, their dietary needs change. Senior dogs may experience digestive issues such as upset stomachs due to these changes. It is important to understand the cause and make necessary adjustments.
Firstly, make sure you are feeding your senior dog a high-quality, age-appropriate diet. Check the ingredients and ensure that the food is easy to digest. Introduce any dietary changes gradually to allow your dog's digestive system to adjust.
Additionally, consider feeding smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to ease any digestive discomfort. Avoid giving your senior dog table scraps or any human food that may upset their stomach.
Finally, ensure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water to aid digestion. By making these simple changes, you can help your senior dog maintain a healthy and happy digestive system.
If issues persist, consult with your vet for further guidance.
Medication Side Effects
If you have a senior dog, you may have noticed that they are experiencing an upset stomach. This could be due to medication side effects. As dogs age, they are more likely to develop health problems that require medication.
While these medications can be effective in treating their conditions, they can also cause unwanted side effects. Upset stomach is a common side effect of many medications, especially in older dogs.
Some medications can irritate the lining of the stomach, leading to inflammation and discomfort.
If you notice that your senior dog is experiencing an upset stomach after taking medication, it's important to speak with your vet. They may be able to adjust the dosage or switch to a different medication.
In some cases, they may also recommend giving your dog medication with food to reduce stomach irritation. Always follow your vet's instructions and never adjust your dog's medication dosage without their guidance.
Infections or Illnesses
If you notice that your senior dog's stomach is upset, it could be a sign of an underlying infection or illness. There are several possible causes of an upset stomach in senior dogs, such as bacterial infections, viral infections, or even cancer. It's essential to take your dog to the vet as soon as possible to determine the root cause of the problem.
Your vet may perform diagnostic tests, such as blood work or X-rays, to get a better understanding of what's going on. Depending on the diagnosis, your vet may recommend a course of treatment, such as antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medication.
Additionally, you may need to change your dog's diet or provide them with extra care while they recover. Remember, early detection and treatment are crucial in ensuring your senior dog's health and well-being.
Food Intolerance or Allergies
If your senior dog is experiencing an upset stomach, it's possible that food intolerance or allergies could be the cause. It's essential to understand the difference between food intolerance and allergies. Food intolerance is when a dog's digestive system has difficulty breaking down a specific ingredient, such as lactose or wheat.
On the other hand, food allergies occur when a dog's immune system overreacts to a specific protein, such as chicken or beef. Both food intolerance and allergies can cause similar symptoms in dogs, including diarrhea, vomiting, and gas.
If you suspect that your senior dog has a food intolerance or allergy, it's crucial to seek veterinary advice. Your vet can help you identify the problematic ingredient and provide dietary recommendations to address your dog's condition. Let your vet know about any changes in your dog's diet, as this can help in identifying the root cause of the problem.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is a common condition in senior dogs that can cause significant discomfort and even life-threatening complications. It is important for pet owners to be aware of the signs and symptoms of pancreatitis, which include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain. In order to prevent pancreatitis in senior dogs, it is crucial to avoid feeding them high-fat foods and to keep them at a healthy weight.
Additionally, regular exercise and routine vet check-ups can help to identify any potential health issues before they become serious.
If your senior dog is showing signs of pancreatitis, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. Your vet may recommend a special diet, medication, or other treatment options to help manage the condition and prevent further complications. By staying informed and taking proactive steps to care for your senior dog, you can help ensure that they live a happy and healthy life.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic condition that can cause an upset stomach in senior dogs. This disease is caused by inflammation in the digestive tract, which can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss.
If your senior dog is showing signs of an upset stomach, it's important to take them to the vet for diagnosis and treatment. The vet may recommend a special diet or medication to help manage the symptoms of IBD. It's also important to provide your senior dog with plenty of water to help keep them hydrated.
In addition, feeding smaller, more frequent meals can help reduce the strain on their digestive system. With proper treatment and care, senior dogs with IBD can live happy and healthy lives.
Treatment and Prevention of Upset Stomach in Senior Dogs
Dietary Changes
If your senior dog is experiencing an upset stomach, dietary changes can often be helpful in managing their symptoms.
First, consider switching to a high-quality, easily digestible dog food that is free from artificial preservatives, additives, and fillers. You may also want to try feeding smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to help ease their digestive system.
Adding probiotics to their diet can also be beneficial in promoting healthy gut bacteria. Another option is to introduce bland foods such as boiled chicken and rice, pumpkin, or sweet potato to their diet.
For several great ideas for what to feed your senior fur baby, check out our articles on The Best Dog Food for Older Dogs and 9 Best Wet Foods for Senior Dogs!
Avoid giving your dog table scraps or foods that are high in fat, as these can exacerbate their upset stomach. Always consult with your vet before making any major dietary changes, as they can offer personalized recommendations based on your dog's specific needs.
Probiotics and Supplements
If you are a pet owner with a senior dog experiencing gastrointestinal issues, probiotics and supplements may offer relief. Probiotics contain beneficial bacteria that help balance the gut microbiome, aiding in digestion and reducing inflammation.
Additionally, prebiotics can assist in feeding these beneficial bacteria. Supplements such as slippery elm bark and aloe vera can also soothe the digestive tract and relieve discomfort.
However, it is important to consult with a vet before giving your dog any new supplements or probiotics. Dosage and type of supplement can vary depending on the individual dog's needs and health status.
It is also essential to ensure that any supplements or probiotics given to your dog are pet-specific and do not contain any harmful ingredients. Proper care and attention to your senior dog's digestive health can improve their quality of life and overall well-being.
Our article on The 11 Best Supplements for Older Dogs is a great starting point!
Medication
If your senior dog is experiencing an upset stomach, medication can be a helpful solution.
However, it's important to first consult with your vet to ensure that the medication is safe and appropriate for your dog's specific condition. There are a variety of medications that can be used to treat upset stomach in dogs, including anti-nausea medications, antacids, and probiotics.
Anti-nausea medications like Cerenia can help prevent vomiting, while antacids like Pepcid (check with your vet) can help reduce stomach acid. Probiotics can also be used to help restore balance to your dog's gut flora.
When giving your dog medication, it's important to follow the dosage instructions carefully and monitor their behavior for any adverse reactions.
Additionally, it's important to ensure that your dog is not experiencing any underlying health issues that may be causing their upset stomach. With proper medication and care, you can help your senior dog feel better and improve their overall quality of life.
Home Remedies
If you have a senior dog with an upset stomach, there are some home remedies that can help alleviate their discomfort.
First, it's important to withhold food for 12-24 hours to give their digestive system a chance to rest.
However, make sure they have access to plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
Once you reintroduce food, give them small, frequent meals of boiled, lean meat and rice. You can also add a tablespoon of canned pumpkin to their meals to help regulate their bowel movements. Another option is to give them a small amount of plain, unsweetened yogurt, which contains probiotics that can aid in digestion.
Our Favorite Senior Pet Food Recipe is loved by our senior fur babies.
Additionally, ginger tea can help soothe their upset stomach. Simply steep a small piece of fresh ginger in hot water and let it cool before offering it to your furry friend. Remember to always consult with your vet before trying any home remedies.
Prevention Strategies
If you notice your senior dog has an upset stomach, there are a few prevention strategies that can help alleviate their discomfort.
First and foremost, it's important to monitor their diet and ensure that they are eating a balanced and easily digestible food. Avoid giving them table scraps or any human food that may be too rich or spicy for their sensitive stomachs.
Additionally, make sure they have access to plenty of fresh water to keep them hydrated. It's also important to keep your senior dog active and maintain a regular exercise routine. This can help keep their digestive system functioning properly and prevent constipation.
If your senior dog continues to experience upset stomachs, it may be helpful to consult with your vet to determine if there are any underlying health issues that need to be addressed. By following these prevention strategies, you can help ensure your senior dog stays healthy and comfortable.
Final Thoughts
One of our senior dogs recently crossed over the rainbow bridge and one of first signs she showed us was an upset stomach that led to a complete loss of appetite. Within a week, we had to let her go.
Understand that senior dogs are more susceptible to an upset stomach than their younger counterparts. It's vitally important to recognize the symptoms and causes of this issue and take the necessary steps to treat and prevent it before something more serious happens and it is too late.
By providing your senior dog with proper care and attention, you can help them live a happy and healthy life.
- Jake