An occasional bout of vomiting or diarrhea is common in dogs and cats and often settles on its own. See a veterinarian promptly, though, if it is severe, repeated, or lasts more than a day, or if your pet is a puppy, kitten, or senior, seems weak or painful, or you notice blood. When in doubt, it is safest to call.
Why pets get upset stomachs
Vomiting and diarrhea are among the most common reasons pets are seen by a veterinarian. They are signs, not diseases in themselves, and they can come from many causes, from a simple dietary indiscretion like raiding the garbage or a sudden change of food to infections, parasites, stress, or eating something they should not have.
In many cases a single episode passes quickly, but sometimes an upset stomach is the first sign of something more serious. Knowing which is which helps you respond calmly and get help at the right time. Our medical services team is here to guide you when you are unsure.
When you can monitor at home
If an otherwise healthy adult pet vomits once or has a single loose stool but is bright, alert, and drinking, it is often reasonable to watch them closely for a short time. Make sure fresh water is available, and let the stomach settle before offering food again.
During this window, watch for any change. If your pet stays bright and the signs ease, they may simply have had a passing upset. If anything worsens, or new signs appear, that is your cue to stop monitoring and call for advice rather than waiting longer.
Red flags that need a vet promptly
Some situations should not be watched at home. Contact your veterinary team promptly if vomiting or diarrhea is repeated or severe, lasts more than a day, or contains blood, which may look bright red or like coffee grounds. Ongoing losses can quickly lead to dehydration, especially in small pets.
Also seek care if your pet seems weak, painful, or bloated, is trying to vomit without producing anything, will not keep water down, or has a swollen belly. These can signal a more serious problem that needs prompt attention rather than a wait and see approach.
Pets that need extra caution
Age and health change the picture. Puppies and kittens, senior pets, and those with existing health conditions have less reserve and can become unwell faster, so their upsets deserve a lower threshold for calling. What might be minor in a healthy adult can be significant in these pets.
If you know your pet may have swallowed something unusual, a toy, a bone, or a toxic food or plant, do not wait for it to pass. Call your veterinary team for advice straight away, as these situations can turn serious quickly.
How your veterinary team finds the cause
When a pet is seen for vomiting or diarrhea, the veterinarian starts with a full history and physical examination, which often points to the likely cause. Depending on what they find, they may recommend pet diagnostics such as bloodwork, a fecal test, or imaging to look deeper.
Finding the cause guides the right care, whether that is simple supportive treatment for a passing upset or something more specific for an ongoing condition. Both dogs and cats are good at hiding how unwell they feel, so a proper assessment is worth it whenever signs are more than mild and brief, and it gives you peace of mind that nothing serious is being missed.
Helping your pet recover
For mild cases your veterinarian may suggest a short rest for the stomach followed by small amounts of a bland, easy to digest diet, such as a plain option they recommend, then a gradual return to normal food over a few days. Always follow the specific advice for your pet, and keep fresh water available to help them stay hydrated.
Avoid giving human medications, which can be harmful to pets, and do not withhold water without guidance. If recovery stalls or signs return, check back with your team through our wellness program visits so any lingering issue is caught.
Frequently asked questions
My dog vomited once but seems fine. Should I worry?
A single episode in a bright, alert adult pet can often be monitored briefly with access to water. Call your team if it repeats, lasts more than a day, or your pet becomes unwell.
When does diarrhea become an emergency?
Seek prompt care if it is severe or bloody, lasts more than a day, or comes with weakness, pain, a swollen belly, or repeated vomiting. Small, young, and senior pets need care sooner.
Can I give my pet human anti-diarrhea medicine?
No. Many human medications are unsafe for pets and can cause harm. Call your veterinary team for advice rather than giving anything from your own medicine cabinet.
Should I stop giving water if my pet is vomiting?
Do not withhold water without guidance, as dehydration is a real risk. Offer small amounts, and contact your team if your pet cannot keep water down.
What should I feed after an upset stomach?
Often a short rest for the stomach followed by small amounts of a bland diet, then a gradual return to normal food. Follow the specific advice your veterinarian gives for your pet.