Chronic Large Bowel Diarrhoea in Dogs: A Comprehensive Overview

Chronic Large Bowel Diarrhoea – Causes and Treatment for Dogs

Chronic large bowel diarrhoea in dogs is a relatively common condition that not only affects the quality of life of our canine companions but also presents a challenge for pet owners and veterinarians alike. This condition, characterised by persistent or recurrent inflammation of the large intestine, demands a thorough understanding and a multifaceted approach to management. Below, we delve into the nuances of chronic large bowel diarrhoea, exploring its distinctions from other forms of diarrhoea, identifying its causes, detailing its symptoms, and outlining the treatments available, with a particular emphasis on the crucial role of nutrition.

Understanding Chronic Large Bowel Diarrhoea in Dogs

Chronic large bowel diarrhoea, or chronic colitis, is defined by inflammation of the colon that persists for several weeks or more. This inflammation disrupts the colon’s ability to absorb water efficiently, leading to diarrhoea with a distinct set of characteristics. It’s crucial to differentiate this condition from acute episodes, which are short-lived and often resolve with minimal intervention.

Differentiating Between Large and Small Intestine Diarrhoea

The origin of diarrhoea—whether it emanates from the large or small intestine—significantly influences the presentation and treatment strategies. Large intestine diarrhoea typically features more frequent but smaller-volume stools, which may contain mucus or blood, indicating irritation or injury within the colon. In contrast, diarrhoea stemming from the small intestine often results in larger volumes of looser stools, potentially accompanied by fat or undigested food particles, highlighting malabsorption issues.

The clinical symptoms observed for large intestinal issues are characteristic of that specific section of the intestine, illustrating the impaired abilities in water absorption and control over defecation. Often, these symptoms can be distinctly identified from those stemming from small intestinal issues, as demonstrated in the subsequent table.

Causes of Chronic Large Bowel Diarrhoea

The aetiology of chronic large bowel diarrhoea is diverse, encompassing dietary intolerances or allergies as well as infections by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Beside parasite infestation, causes of large bowel diarrhoea include stress, idiopathic inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), food intolerance, histiocytic ulcerative colitis (HUC), clostridial infections, and a disease similar to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in humans. (1) Accurate diagnosis of the underlying cause is essential for targeted treatment and management.

Symptoms to Watch For

Common indicators of chronic large bowel diarrhoea include:

• Frequent, small-volume defecation
• Blood or mucus in stools
• Straining during defecation
• Increased urgency to defecate
• Possible weight loss or reduced appetite

Observing these symptoms warrants a veterinary evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

Treatment Modalities

Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause and may include anti-inflammatory medications, antibiotics, or antiparasitic drugs. Probiotics can help restore gut flora balance, while dietary management and stress reduction can also play vital roles.

Drugs Used To Treat Chronic Large Bowel Diarrhoea

Some of the drugs that are used to treat the causes of this issue include (2):

• Amoxicillin – effective in almost all animals with clostridial colitis
• Tylosin – effective against Clostridium perfringens
• Metronidazole – effective against anaerobic bacteria in general, but metronidazole is inconsistently effective in animals with clostridial colitis
• Enrofloxacin – initially effective against histiocytic ulcerative colitis but antibiotics resistance now makes it less so

The Critical Role of Nutrition

Nutritional intervention is paramount in managing chronic large bowel diarrhoea. The goals are to provide highly digestible nutrients, maintain a low-fat diet, and incorporate both soluble and insoluble fibres, which serve different but complementary roles in gut health.

Non-specific treatment includes fasting for 24 to 48 hours, feeding a hypoallergenic diet, increasing dietary fibre content, and adding fermentable fibre such as psyllium, beet pulp, or fructooligosaccharides (FOS) to the food

• Highly Digestible Proteins: Beyond traditional sources like cooked chicken or turkey, plant-based proteins such as cooked lentils, chickpeas, fava beans, potato or soya can be excellent, easily digestible options. These should be introduced cautiously and monitored for any adverse reactions, as some dogs may have sensitivities to certain plant proteins such as soya, wheat or corn (maize)
• Low-Fat Content: A diet low in fats is easier for the digestive system to process. Incorporating lean meats and considering plant-based fat sources like rapeseed oil or flaxseed oil can be beneficial. It is important to note that the cause of the diarrhoea may be associated with a food related enteropathy and an allergy to the meat-based source of protein or fat.
• Fibre Sources: Soluble fibre, found in sources like pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and psyllium husk, helps absorb water and add bulk to stools, aiding in smoother passage. Insoluble fibre, present in vegetables like legumes such as chickpeas, fava beans, peas, green beans and carrots, helps stimulate bowel movements. An adequate blend of both fibre types is crucial for managing diarrhoea and promoting colon health.
• Probiotic Supplements: These beneficial bacteria are crucial for maintaining intestinal health and can be supplemented in the diet to support the digestive system.
• Herbs and Adaptogens: For large bowel diarrhoea issues that are caused by stress, there are a number of herbs, botanicals and adaptogens that can help treat dog stress and anxiety in a natural and holistic way. These include chamomile, ashwagandha, Siberian ginseng, panax ginseng, lemon balm, valerian, turmeric, Rhodiola, echinacea and passionflower. (3)

Fibre Sources

It is important to understand what fibre is and the differences between soluble and insoluble fibres.

Fibre is defined as “dietary material containing substances such as cellulose, lignin and pectin that are resistant to the action of digestive enzymes.” In other words, fibre is the substance found in plant foods (carbohydrates) that is not metabolised in the stomach and intestines, but rather passes through the gastrointestinal tract and makes up a part of a dog’s stools.

There are two main types of dietary fibre:

• Insoluble fibre: Does not dissolve in water and is left intact and undigested. Insoluble fibre can help speed up the passage of food through the stomach and intestine. It also adds bulk to the stool and can help relieve constipation. These fibres also help absorb and remove by-products and carcinogens from the gut, lowering the chances of developing issues such as diverticulitis in dogs.
• Soluble fibre: Dissolves in water, retains water and forms a gel-like substance in the colon. It slows down digestion and nutrient absorption from the stomach and intestine.

A comprehensive approach to dietary fibre incorporates a variety of sources:

• Soluble Fibre: Apples, barley, oats, Brussel sprouts, broccoli, sweet potato, carrots and legumes (including fava beans, kidney beans, lima beans, lentils and chickpeas) are excellent sources. Flaxseeds and sunflower seeds also provide good sources of soluble fibre.
• Insoluble Fibre: Whole grains including wheat, barley and oats, nuts, seeds, and vegetables such as cauliflower, dark leafy greens such as spinach and kale and green beans contribute significantly to dietary fibre intake.

Many plant-based foods contain both soluble and insoluble fibres. The following is a table of foods that contain both soluble and insoluble fibres

FAQ on Chronic Large Bowel Diarrhoea in Dogs

What causes chronic large bowel diarrhoea in dogs?

Chronic large bowel diarrhoea in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, including dietary intolerances or allergies, infections (bacterial, viral, or parasitic), inflammatory bowel disease, stress, and certain types of cancers. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment. (1)

How long does large bowel diarrhoea last in dogs?

Large bowel diarrhoea can vary in duration. When classified as chronic, it indicates that the condition has persisted for several weeks or more, typically longer than two to three weeks.

How do I know if my dog has large bowel diarrhoea?

Signs of large bowel diarrhoea include more frequent, smaller volume stools that may contain mucus or blood, straining to defecate, and increased urgency. If you notice these symptoms, a veterinary evaluation is recommended.

What is the difference between large and small bowel diarrhoea in dogs?

The primary difference lies in the symptoms and stool characteristics. Large bowel diarrhoea involves frequent, small volume stools that may contain mucus or blood. In contrast, small bowel diarrhoea typically results in larger volumes of looser stools, possibly with fat or undigested food, indicating malabsorption issues. (2)

How do you treat large bowel diarrhoea in dogs?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include dietary management (such as high fibre diets), medications (anti-inflammatory, antibiotics, or antiparasitics), probiotics, and in some cases, surgery. Consulting with a veterinarian is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Is Chronic large bowel diarrhoea the same as chronic colitis?

Yes, chronic large bowel diarrhoea is often referred to as chronic colitis. Both terms describe ongoing inflammation of the colon which leads to persistent diarrhoea.

Is chronic idiopathic large bowel diarrhoea the same as chronic large bowel diarrhoea?

Chronic idiopathic large bowel diarrhoea (CILBD) is a type of chronic large bowel diarrhoea where the cause remains unknown despite thorough investigation. Diagnosis is reached by exclusion of the most common diseases associated with chronic large bowel diarrhoea. It is considered a subset of chronic large bowel diarrhoea. (3)

What is fibre responsive large bowel diarrhoea (FRLBD)?

Fibre responsive large bowel diarrhoea (FRLBD) is a condition where the symptoms of large bowel diarrhoea improve with the addition of dietary fibre. It indicates that the diarrhoea is responsive to fibre supplementation, often making it manageable through diet adjustments alone. (4, 5)

What is considered severe diarrhoea in dogs?

Severe diarrhoea in dogs is characterised by frequent, voluminous, or bloody stools, significant changes in stool consistency, and may be accompanied by other signs such as vomiting, lethargy, or weight loss. Immediate veterinary care is recommended.

What is the difference between acute diarrhoea, persistent diarrhoea and chronic diarrhoea?

Acute diarrhoea is a common problem that typically lasts 1 or 2 days and goes away on its own. Persistent diarrhoea lasts longer than 2 weeks and less than 4 weeks. Chronic diarrhoea lasts at least 4 weeks. Chronic diarrhoea symptoms may be continual or may come and go. (6)

What are the symptoms of chronic large bowel diarrhoea in dogs?

Symptoms include frequent defecation of small volumes of stool, presence of blood or mucus in the stool, straining during defecation, increased urgency to defecate, and in some cases, weight loss and reduced appetite. These symptoms warrant a veterinary examination to identify and treat the underlying cause. (7)

Are large intestinal diarrhoea and large bowel diarrhoea the same?

Yes, large intestinal diarrhoea and large bowel diarrhoea refer to the same condition. Both terms describe diarrhoea that originates from the large intestine or colon, characterised by symptoms such as frequent, small volume stools that may contain mucus or blood, and urgency or difficulty defecating. These terms are used interchangeably to indicate inflammation or irritation affecting the latter part of the digestive system.

What foods trigger chronic large bowel diarrhoea or colitis in dogs?

Foods that trigger large bowel diarrhoea or colitis in dogs can vary widely depending on the individual dog’s sensitivities, allergies, or intolerances. However, certain types of foods are more commonly associated with triggering or exacerbating large bowel diarrhoea or colitis symptoms in dogs. These include:

1. Dairy Products: Many dogs are lactose intolerant, and dairy products can lead to digestive upset, including colitis.
2. High-Fat Foods: Foods high in fat can be difficult for dogs to digest and may cause inflammation of the colon.
3. Spicy Foods: Spicy ingredients can irritate the dog’s gastrointestinal tract leading to colitis.
4. Rich or Fatty Meats: Similar to high-fat foods, rich or greasy meats can exacerbate gastrointestinal issues.
5. Processed Foods: Foods containing artificial additives, colours, and preservatives may trigger colitis in some dogs.
6. Grains: Some dogs may have a sensitivity or intolerance to grains like wheat, corn, and soy, which can lead to colitis. However, it’s worth noting that not all dogs are grain-sensitive, and grains can be a part of many dogs’ healthy diets.
7. Certain Proteins: Dogs can develop sensitivities or allergies to specific protein sources, such as beef, chicken, or lamb. Identifying and avoiding the offending protein can help manage colitis symptoms.

Conclusion

The management of chronic large bowel diarrhoea in dogs requires a detailed understanding of the condition’s underlying causes, symptoms, and treatment strategies, with a significant emphasis on nutritional intervention. Tailoring the diet to meet the specific needs of a dog with this condition, incorporating both plant-based proteins and a careful selection of fibre sources, can play a critical role in managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Collaboration with a veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist is essential to develop an effective, individualised management plan for any dog suffering from this condition.

Bonza Superfoods and Ancient Grains plant-based dog food contains a higher level of quality fibre sources, both soluble and insoluble, than most dog foods. In addition to these sources of fibre the food also includes FOS and MOS, inulin (a soluble fibre derived from chicory root) and beta-glucans all of which work to stabilise the gut and digestive system.

The formula also includes a quality probiotic source, Calsporin, which helps to restore the gut flora balance in dogs suffering from issues related to large bowel diarrhoea as well as a blend of herbs, spices and adaptogens that not only support a reduction in dog stress but also work to normalise their systems in a natural and holistic way.