Is Diarrhea and Extreme Flatulence in Older Dog Due to Vetmedin for Heart Murmur?

Dear VetBabble,

My 10.5-year-old dog has recently started taking Vetmedin 2.5mg twice daily for her grade 4 heart murmur and enlarged heart. In the last week, she has been experiencing bad diarrhea and extremely smelly flatulence and seems more tired than usual. Could this be due to the medication and will it pass? Is there something I could give her to help her adjust?

Understanding Your Dog’s Troubling Symptoms

It’s understandable to be concerned about your furry friend’s sudden change in health, especially when her recent diagnosis already has you worried. Let’s address each of her symptoms and potential solutions to bring both of you comfort and peace of mind.

The Culprit: Your Dog’s New Medication

Like all medications, Vetmedin can sometimes come with side effects, which may cause gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and flatulence in some dogs. Remember, starting a new medication can be an adjustment for our canine companions, and it might take their bodies some time to fully adapt. This could mean passing side effects that fade away as your dog grows used to the medication. It’s essential to stay in close contact with your veterinarian and monitor your dog’s symptoms, as they’ll be able to advise you on whether your dog should continue the treatment or explore alternative options.

Managing Your Dog’s Gastrointestinal Issues

While your dog’s body adjusts to her new medication, there are some potential solutions you can try to help alleviate her gastrointestinal discomfort. One option is to put her on a probiotic, like Fortiflora. Probiotics provide beneficial gut bacteria, which can help restore balance in her digestive system and help decrease symptoms such as the smelly flatulence and diarrhea you’ve mentioned.

In addition to probiotics, consider other potential causes of diarrhea in dogs. To learn more about common causes, check out this article on Why Does My Dog Have Diarrhea? This may help you identify if there are any other factors contributing to her symptoms.

Addressing Your Dog’s Tiredness

Given your dog’s heart condition, it’s crucial to monitor her energy levels. The tiredness you’ve observed may be unrelated to her medication and connected more directly to her heart health. Keep an open conversation with your veterinarian about your dog’s energy levels and any changes you notice. To learn more about heart failure in dogs and potential warning signs, read this informative article about Heart Failure in Dogs.

Other Potential Health Concerns to Address

As you help your dog adjust to her new medication, it’s essential to ensure she remains in overall good health. Make sure to check for common problems, such as parasites that can affect your dog’s well-being. Learn about various parasites and how to prevent them in this article on Fleas, Ticks & Worms: What You Need to Know.

If you ever have concerns about your pet’s health, always consult your veterinarian. They are your best resource for your dog’s care and can guide you to the most effective treatments for her specific needs. Remember, as a pet owner, you know your dog best, so if something feels off or changes in her health persist, make sure to take her to the vet for an evaluation.

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