Diarrhea is a very common problem that impacts both dogs and cats. Past studies have shown that roughly 15% to nearly 30% of patients that present to the veterinary clinic for care will have been affected with diarrhea in the days to weeks leading up to their visit. 

In recent years, a number of studies have shown that the empirical use of antibiotics (e.g. Metronidazole) in patients with diarrhea really does not alter the outcome and could potentially cause more harm by disrupting the gut microbiome. In addition, we know that the use of antibiotics can lead to the development of resistant bacterial populations and make it more difficult to treat future bacterial infections.

Antimicrobial stewardship and adherence to the most current of prescribing guidelines is critical for ensuring the health of both animals and humans. Development of multi-drug resistant bacterial populations is one consequence of antibiotic misuse or overuse, and bacterial populations are shared between animals and humans within a household.

In this segment, Dr. Jennifer Granick discusses diarrhea in companion animals and proposes some management strategies and interventions to consider other than antibiotics.  Her discussion includes:

• Findings of past studies comparing patient outcomes with different treatment protocols
• The role of the intestinal microbiome and the concept of dysbiosis
• The role and importance of bile acids and short chain fatty acids in maintaining gut health
• Alternatives to antibiotics for managing diarrhea including prebiotics, probiotics, postbiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation, diet and fiber
• Recommended treatment approaches to patients with acute vs. chronic diarrhea
• Tips for communicating to pet owners who request refills of antibiotics because they have always worked in resolving past diarrhea episodes

This presentation meets requirements for antimicrobial stewardship / prescribing continued education for veterinary professionals.

Running time: 51 mins
Approved for 1 hour of CE credit by AAVSB RACE and NY State

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