Approach to Chronic Diarrhoea in companion animals

Chronic diarrhoea is a familiar and frequent presentation in small animal practice. The underlying cause may reflect primary gastrointestinal disease or a non-gastrointestinal disorder. Adoption of a thorough and logical diagnostic pathway is paramount to implementation of appropriate control strategies.

There are key diagnostic challenges associated with chronic diarrhoea and appropriate interpretation of the available tests. Current thinking, in particular with respect to the pressing need for a coordinated, rational approach to antibiotic use in small animals, justifies a revision of the classic therapeutic algorithm for chronic enteropathy. Careful consideration and timing of other treatment strategies including immunosuppressive therapy is warranted.