Clinical Approach to Diarrhea in Veterinary Medicine
Diarrhea in veterinary medicine refers to the passage of loose, watery, or abnormally frequent feces in animals, and it is one of the most common clinical signs encountered in veterinary practice. It can affect a wide range of species, including companion animals like dogs and cats, livestock such as cattle and sheep, and even exotic or wildlife species. Diarrhea is not a disease itself but a symptom of underlying disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract or systemic conditions. The causes of diarrhea in veterinary medicine are diverse. They may include infectious agents (bacteria, viruses, parasites), dietary indiscretion, sudden changes in feed, food intolerance, toxins, stress, or chronic diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease or organ dysfunction. In young animals, infections like parvovirus or coccidiosis can be particularly severe and sometimes life-threatening. In livestock, diarrhea can lead to significant economic losses due to dehydration, reduced growth, and decrease...