Diarrhea

Diarrhea in birds is a common clinical sign characterized by the production of loose, watery, or abnormally formed droppings. Unlike mammals, birds produce droppings that contain three distinct components: feces (the solid waste from the digestive tract), urates (the white or cream-colored waste from the kidneys), and urine (the liquid component). True diarrhea specifically refers to an increase in the water content or abnormal consistency of the fecal portion, though many bird owners mistakenly confuse increased urine output (polyuria) with diarrhea. This distinction is critically important because the underlying causes and treatments differ significantly between these two conditions.

Diarrhea can result from numerous underlying causes, ranging from relatively minor dietary indiscretions to serious infectious diseases or organ dysfunction. The fecal component of bird droppings should normally be well-formed, tubular or coiled, and maintain its shape. When a bird has diarrhea, the feces may appear loose, unformed, watery, discolored, or contain abnormal materials such as undigested food, blood, or mucus. The consistency, color, and frequency of abnormal droppings can provide valuable diagnostic clues about the underlying cause of the gastrointestinal disturbance.

The impact of diarrhea on a bird's health can range from mild and self-limiting to severe and life-threatening. Acute diarrhea can lead to rapid dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and weakness, particularly in smaller bird species with high metabolic rates. Chronic diarrhea can result in malnutrition, weight loss, and failure to thrive as the bird fails to properly absorb nutrients from food. Additionally, diarrhea often indicates an underlying health problem that requires veterinary attention, making it an important warning sign that should prompt bird owners to seek professional evaluation.

Treatment for diarrhea depends entirely on identifying and addressing the underlying cause. While supportive care including fluid therapy, dietary modifications, and probiotics may help manage symptoms, definitive treatment requires accurate diagnosis through veterinary examination and appropriate diagnostic testing. Early intervention is essential, as birds can deteriorate rapidly when experiencing significant gastrointestinal disturbances. Bird owners should never attempt to treat diarrhea at home without veterinary guidance, as this can delay appropriate treatment and worsen outcomes. An avian veterinarian can perform the necessary examinations and tests to determine the cause and provide targeted treatment.

Diarrhea in birds has numerous potential causes, reflecting the complex nature of the avian digestive system and its sensitivity to various internal and external factors. Infectious agents represent one of the most common categories of causes, including bacterial infections such as Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Campylobacter, Clostridium, and Pseudomonas species. Viral infections including avian polyomavirus, proventricular dilatation disease virus (avian bornavirus), and various enteric viruses can also cause diarrhea. Parasitic infections, particularly those caused by protozoa like Giardia and Coccidia, as well as intestinal worms, frequently result in diarrhea as a primary clinical sign.

Dietary factors play a significant role in the development of diarrhea in companion birds. Sudden changes in diet can disrupt the normal intestinal flora and cause temporary gastrointestinal upset. Consumption of spoiled or contaminated food, foods high in water content such as certain fruits and vegetables, or foods that are inappropriate for the species can trigger diarrhea. Food allergies or intolerances, while less common in birds than in mammals, can also manifest as gastrointestinal disturbances. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly those affecting gut health such as vitamin A deficiency, can predispose birds to diarrhea by compromising the integrity of the intestinal lining.

Environmental and stress-related factors frequently contribute to diarrhea in birds. Stress from changes in environment, new household members, loud noises, irregular schedules, or inadequate sleep can disrupt normal digestive function. Temperature extremes, particularly cold stress, can affect gut motility and predispose birds to gastrointestinal problems. Poor hygiene in the cage environment allows pathogenic organisms to proliferate and increases the risk of infectious diarrhea. Toxin exposure from household chemicals, contaminated food or water, heavy metals, or toxic plants can cause acute gastrointestinal damage and diarrhea.

Systemic diseases affecting organs beyond the gastrointestinal tract can manifest with diarrhea as a clinical sign. Liver disease, kidney disease, and pancreatic disorders can all affect digestion and produce abnormal droppings. Hormonal imbalances, particularly those associated with reproductive activity, may temporarily alter dropping consistency. Neoplastic conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract or adjacent organs can cause chronic diarrhea through direct tissue invasion or obstruction. Antibiotic therapy, while necessary for treating bacterial infections, can disrupt normal intestinal flora and cause antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

The mechanism by which diarrhea develops varies depending on the underlying cause but generally involves disruption of normal intestinal function. Increased intestinal secretion occurs when the intestinal lining is irritated or inflamed, causing excess fluid to enter the intestinal lumen. Decreased absorption happens when damage to the intestinal villi reduces the surface area available for nutrient and water absorption. Increased intestinal motility rushes contents through the digestive tract too quickly for adequate water absorption. Osmotic diarrhea occurs when poorly absorbed substances draw water into the intestinal lumen. Understanding these mechanisms helps guide treatment approaches and explains why addressing the underlying cause is essential for resolution.

The earliest warning signs of diarrhea in birds may be subtle and easily overlooked by inexperienced bird owners. Changes in dropping appearance often begin gradually, with slight softening of the fecal component or minor color variations that precede more obvious diarrhea. Birds may spend more time at the bottom of the cage near food and water dishes, showing decreased activity levels even before obvious illness becomes apparent. A slight decrease in appetite or change in food preferences may occur as the bird begins to feel unwell. Because birds instinctively hide signs of illness to avoid appearing vulnerable to predators, early gastrointestinal disturbances may not be immediately obvious. Owners who are familiar with their bird's normal dropping appearance and behavior are best positioned to detect these early changes.

The most common and recognizable symptoms of diarrhea involve changes in dropping appearance. The fecal portion becomes loose, watery, poorly formed, or completely liquid rather than maintaining its normal tubular shape. Color changes may occur, with feces appearing green (indicating liver involvement or anorexia), yellow (suggesting liver disease), black (potentially indicating upper gastrointestinal bleeding), red (suggesting lower intestinal bleeding), or containing undigested food particles. The frequency of droppings typically increases as intestinal contents move through more rapidly. The smell of droppings may become more pungent or abnormal. Owners may notice soiling of the vent feathers, which normally remain clean in healthy birds.

Behavioral changes accompanying diarrhea provide important clues about the bird's overall condition and the severity of illness. Decreased activity and lethargy are common as the bird conserves energy while fighting illness. Loss of appetite (anorexia) or selective eating may occur, with some birds refusing their normal diet entirely. Birds may show decreased interest in interaction, play, or normal activities they previously enjoyed. Vocalization patterns may change, with some birds becoming quieter while others may vocalize more due to discomfort. Increased sleeping or fluffed feathers indicate the bird is not feeling well and may be trying to conserve body heat.

Physical signs visible to observant owners extend beyond dropping changes. Weight loss may become apparent, particularly with chronic diarrhea, and can be detected by feeling the bird's keel bone (breastbone), which becomes more prominent as muscle mass decreases. Dehydration signs include sunken eyes, loss of skin elasticity, and tacky or dry mucous membranes. The vent area may appear soiled, inflamed, or irritated from frequent loose droppings. Feather quality may decline over time, with feathers appearing dull, disheveled, or improperly maintained as the bird neglects normal preening behavior.

Symptom progression varies depending on the underlying cause and the bird's overall health status. Acute infectious causes may produce sudden, severe diarrhea that worsens rapidly over hours to days. Chronic conditions may cause intermittent or persistent diarrhea that waxes and wanes over weeks to months. As diarrhea continues, secondary complications such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies develop. The bird's condition may deteriorate progressively, with increasing lethargy, weakness, and loss of body condition. Some birds compensate for a time before suddenly declining, making regular monitoring essential.

Emergency symptoms requiring immediate avian veterinary care include bloody droppings, which suggest serious gastrointestinal bleeding or severe infection. Profuse watery diarrhea with rapid deterioration indicates potentially life-threatening fluid loss. Signs of severe dehydration including extreme lethargy, inability to perch, or loss of consciousness require emergency intervention. Birds that stop eating and drinking entirely while having diarrhea need urgent attention. Diarrhea accompanied by other severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, seizures, or complete collapse indicates a critical emergency. Young birds, elderly birds, and those with chronic health conditions are particularly vulnerable and require more urgent attention when diarrhea develops.

The diagnostic process for diarrhea in birds begins with a thorough initial examination by an avian veterinarian. The veterinarian will obtain a detailed history including the duration and characteristics of the diarrhea, dietary information, recent changes in environment or routine, potential toxin exposures, and the bird's overall health history. Physical examination includes assessment of body condition, hydration status, vent examination, palpation of the abdomen, and evaluation of the bird's overall demeanor. Fresh dropping samples are extremely valuable and owners should bring recent droppings to the appointment if possible. The veterinarian will visually assess dropping characteristics including color, consistency, and the relative proportions of feces, urates, and urine to help distinguish true diarrhea from polyuria.

Diagnostic testing typically begins with fecal examination and may expand based on initial findings. Direct microscopy of fresh droppings can reveal parasites, bacterial overgrowth, or abnormal cells. Fecal flotation concentrates parasite eggs and cysts for easier detection. Gram staining provides immediate information about the bacterial population in the digestive tract. Fecal cultures identify specific bacterial pathogens and determine antibiotic sensitivity. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing can detect specific infectious agents including viruses and some bacteria. Blood work including a complete blood count and biochemistry panel evaluates organ function, detects signs of infection or inflammation, and assesses overall health status.

Differentiating true diarrhea from other conditions that affect dropping appearance is essential for appropriate treatment. Polyuria (increased urine output) is frequently mistaken for diarrhea but has different causes including kidney disease, diabetes, and excessive water intake. The veterinarian must distinguish between these conditions by carefully evaluating dropping components. Other conditions that may mimic or accompany diarrhea include cloacal prolapse, reproductive disorders, and gastrointestinal foreign bodies. Systemic diseases affecting the liver, kidneys, or pancreas may produce dropping changes that require specific diagnosis. Additional testing such as radiographs (X-rays), ultrasound, or endoscopy may be recommended to evaluate the gastrointestinal tract and internal organs.

Confirming the underlying diagnosis often requires integration of multiple test results and may involve a process of elimination. Some causes of diarrhea can be definitively diagnosed through specific testing, while others require therapeutic trials or ongoing monitoring. Severity assessment helps guide treatment intensity and prognosis. The veterinarian may recommend baseline testing for chronic conditions and follow-up testing to monitor response to treatment. In complex cases, referral to an avian specialist or advanced diagnostic imaging may be necessary. Throughout the diagnostic process, supportive care may be initiated to stabilize the patient while awaiting definitive diagnosis. Clear communication between the veterinarian and bird owner ensures appropriate follow-up and monitoring as the diagnostic picture becomes clearer.

Emergency and immediate treatment for severe diarrhea focuses on stabilizing the bird and preventing life-threatening complications. Fluid therapy is often the most critical initial intervention, as diarrhea can cause rapid dehydration that is particularly dangerous in small birds with high metabolic rates. Fluids may be administered subcutaneously, intravenously, or intraosseously depending on the severity of dehydration and the bird's condition. Heat support helps maintain body temperature, as sick birds often cannot thermoregulate effectively. For critically ill birds, hospitalization allows for intensive monitoring, oxygen support if needed, and round-the-clock care. Emergency stabilization takes priority over definitive diagnosis in severely compromised patients.

Medical management targets both the symptoms of diarrhea and the underlying cause once identified. Antimicrobial therapy is prescribed when bacterial or fungal infections are confirmed or strongly suspected, with specific medication selection guided by culture and sensitivity results when available. Antiparasitic medications treat protozoal or helminth infections. Gastrointestinal protectants may help soothe irritated intestinal tissue. Probiotics can help restore normal intestinal flora, particularly after antibiotic therapy or in cases of dysbiosis. Medications are typically administered orally, though injection may be necessary for severely ill birds. Treatment duration varies based on the underlying cause and response to therapy.

Surgical intervention is rarely required for uncomplicated diarrhea but may be necessary when diarrhea results from structural problems. Foreign body removal requires surgery if an ingested object is causing gastrointestinal obstruction or irritation. Masses or tumors affecting the gastrointestinal tract may require surgical biopsy or removal. Surgical exploration may be diagnostic when other testing fails to identify the cause of chronic diarrhea. Avian surgery requires specialized training and equipment due to the unique anatomy and physiology of birds. Post-surgical care includes pain management, nutritional support, and careful monitoring for complications.

Supportive care forms an essential component of treatment regardless of the underlying cause. Nutritional support ensures the bird receives adequate calories and nutrients during illness, which may require assisted feeding in anorectic patients. Dietary modification often includes easily digestible foods and may temporarily eliminate items that exacerbate diarrhea. Environmental modifications include providing supplemental heat, reducing stress, and ensuring easy access to food and water. Hygiene management prevents reinfection and maintains the bird's comfort by keeping the vent area clean and changing cage substrate frequently.

Alternative and complementary treatments may support recovery alongside conventional veterinary care. Herbal remedies with demonstrated anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial properties may be recommended by some avian veterinarians. Acupuncture has been used in some avian practices to support gastrointestinal function. Nutritional supplements including specific vitamins, minerals, or fatty acids may help support gut health and immune function. These approaches should complement rather than replace conventional treatment and should only be used under veterinary guidance. The efficacy of many alternative treatments has not been rigorously studied in birds.

Treatment decisions consider multiple factors beyond just the diagnosis. Cost of various diagnostic and treatment options must be weighed against expected benefits. The bird's age, species, overall health status, and prognosis affect treatment intensity recommendations. Owner capability to provide home care including medication administration influences the treatment plan. Chronic conditions may require ongoing management rather than cure. The veterinarian should discuss expected outcomes for different treatment approaches, allowing owners to make informed decisions about their bird's care. Regular reassessment ensures treatment remains appropriate as the bird's condition evolves.

Recovery timeline from diarrhea varies dramatically depending on the underlying cause, severity of illness, and promptness of treatment. Acute diarrhea from dietary indiscretion or mild stress may resolve within a few days with appropriate supportive care and dietary management. Infectious causes typically require one to three weeks of treatment before complete resolution, though improvement should be visible within the first several days of appropriate therapy. Chronic conditions may require weeks to months of management before stable improvement occurs, and some cases require ongoing long-term management rather than complete cure. Birds that were severely debilitated before treatment began may require extended recovery periods to rebuild body condition and strength.

Post-treatment care is essential for complete recovery and prevention of relapse. Medication courses must be completed as prescribed, even after symptoms appear to resolve, to prevent recurrence or development of resistant organisms. Gradual dietary transition back to normal food prevents gastrointestinal upset from sudden changes. Activity should be gradually increased as the bird's strength returns, with continued access to easy perching and food sources during recovery. Follow-up veterinary appointments allow monitoring of progress and adjustment of treatment if needed. Owners should maintain detailed records of dropping appearance, appetite, and behavior to share with the veterinarian.

Prognosis factors help predict expected outcomes and guide expectations for recovery. Birds that receive prompt veterinary care generally have better outcomes than those with delayed treatment. The specific underlying cause significantly affects prognosis, with some conditions being readily curable and others requiring lifelong management. Young, previously healthy birds typically recover more completely than elderly birds or those with concurrent health problems. Severity at presentation affects prognosis, as birds with severe dehydration, weight loss, or secondary complications face more challenging recoveries. Owner compliance with treatment recommendations influences outcomes, as incomplete treatment often leads to relapse or complications.

Long-term outlook depends on successfully identifying and addressing the underlying cause. Birds that recover from acute infectious or dietary causes of diarrhea typically return to normal health with no lasting effects. Chronic conditions may be manageable with ongoing medication, dietary modification, or environmental management, allowing good quality of life even without complete cure. Some underlying diseases such as certain viral infections or cancer carry guarded to poor long-term prognosis despite temporary improvement with treatment. Recurrence risk varies by cause and may be reduced through preventive measures. Regular veterinary monitoring helps detect early signs of recurrence and allows prompt intervention. Most birds that recover from diarrhea can return to normal activities and enjoy good quality of life with appropriate ongoing care.

Environmental prevention strategies form the foundation of diarrhea prevention in companion birds. Maintaining excellent cage hygiene through daily cleaning of food and water dishes and regular complete cage cleaning reduces pathogen exposure. Water sources should be changed at least daily and kept free from contamination by droppings or food debris. Food dishes should be positioned to minimize contamination and removed promptly after feeding periods for fresh foods. Proper ventilation maintains air quality without creating drafts that stress birds. Temperature regulation prevents cold stress, which can compromise immune function and predispose birds to illness. Substrate material should be appropriate for the species and changed frequently to maintain cleanliness.

Quarantine protocols protect existing birds when introducing new additions to the household. New birds should be quarantined in a completely separate airspace from established birds for a minimum of 30 to 90 days depending on veterinarian recommendations. During quarantine, the new bird should receive a complete veterinary examination including appropriate disease testing. Strict hygiene practices during quarantine include handling quarantined birds last, changing clothes, and washing hands thoroughly between bird interactions. Testing for common infectious diseases before introduction protects the health of all birds. This investment of time prevents devastating disease outbreaks that can affect entire collections.

Dietary prevention focuses on providing optimal nutrition that supports digestive and immune health. A species-appropriate diet meeting all nutritional requirements provides the foundation for good health. Fresh foods should be washed thoroughly and offered in appropriate portions that will be consumed promptly. Spoiled or contaminated food must never be offered, and food storage should prevent contamination and spoilage. Gradual dietary changes prevent gastrointestinal upset from sudden transitions. Avoiding inappropriate foods including those toxic to birds, excessive treats, or items known to cause digestive upset reduces diarrhea risk. Clean, fresh water supports proper hydration and digestive function.

Health maintenance through regular veterinary care enables early detection and prevention of conditions that cause diarrhea. Annual wellness examinations allow veterinarians to detect subtle health changes before they become serious problems. Routine fecal testing identifies parasitic infections that may cause diarrhea. Appropriate vaccination where available protects against specific infectious diseases. Maintaining detailed health records helps identify patterns and catch problems early. Weight monitoring at home between veterinary visits detects changes that may indicate developing illness. Prompt attention to any health changes prevents minor issues from becoming serious problems.

Early intervention maximizes the chances of successful treatment and recovery. Owners should be familiar with normal dropping appearance for their specific bird and monitor for changes. Any persistent change in dropping consistency, color, or frequency warrants veterinary evaluation. Early treatment of mild symptoms prevents progression to severe illness. Establishing a relationship with an avian veterinarian before emergencies occur ensures prompt access to care when needed. Keeping a basic first aid kit and knowing emergency clinic locations prepares owners to respond quickly when problems arise. Education about common causes of diarrhea helps owners identify and eliminate risk factors before problems develop.

Daily management of a bird with diarrhea or recovering from diarrhea requires consistent attention to routine and care tasks. Medication administration must follow veterinary instructions precisely, including timing, dosage, and method of delivery. Food and water should be fresh and easily accessible, with feeding times consistent to establish routine. Monitoring dropping appearance, frequency, and the bird's overall condition provides crucial information about treatment response and should be recorded daily. Weighing the bird regularly detects subtle weight changes that may indicate improvement or decline. The cage and surrounding area require more frequent cleaning during active diarrhea to maintain hygiene and prevent reinfection.

Home environment modifications support recovery and ongoing health for birds with gastrointestinal issues. Cage setup should prioritize easy access to food and water, with dishes positioned where weakened birds can reach them comfortably. Lower perches prevent injury if the bird is weak or unsteady. Supplemental heat sources may be needed to maintain appropriate temperature, particularly for sick birds that cannot thermoregulate effectively. Reducing environmental stressors including loud noises, sudden changes, and household disruptions supports immune function and recovery. Air quality management through proper ventilation and air filtration benefits respiratory and overall health.

Maintaining quality of life remains important even during illness and treatment. Gentle interaction appropriate to the bird's energy level provides mental stimulation and maintains the human-bird bond. As recovery progresses, gradually reintroducing normal activities prevents depression and supports rehabilitation. Environmental enrichment appropriate to the bird's condition prevents boredom without overtaxing limited energy reserves. Maintaining routines as much as possible within treatment constraints provides security and reduces stress. Recognizing and respecting the bird's need for rest during illness while still providing appropriate stimulation balances recovery needs with quality of life.

Ongoing monitoring and care ensure continued health and enable early detection of problems. Regular observation of dropping appearance becomes a lifelong habit for conscientious bird owners. Tracking food consumption, weight, and behavior patterns establishes baselines that make changes easier to detect. Scheduled veterinary rechecks as recommended monitor treatment success and overall health. Keeping detailed records of symptoms, treatments, and responses aids future veterinary consultations. Knowing when to contact the veterinarian versus when to continue monitoring at home prevents both unnecessary visits and dangerous delays in seeking care.

Caregiver support resources help bird owners manage the challenges of caring for a sick bird. Online communities and support groups connect owners facing similar challenges and provide emotional support and practical advice. Financial planning for veterinary care reduces stress when treatment is needed. Understanding that caring for a chronically ill bird can be emotionally demanding helps owners recognize when they need support. Building a relationship with a trusted avian veterinarian provides expert guidance and reassurance. Educational resources about the specific condition help owners understand what to expect and how to provide optimal care. Taking breaks and practicing self-care enables owners to provide sustained quality care for their birds.

While diarrhea can affect any bird species, certain groups demonstrate higher susceptibility to gastrointestinal disturbances. Smaller bird species including finches, canaries, and budgerigars are particularly vulnerable to the dehydrating effects of diarrhea due to their high metabolic rates and small body reserves. Young birds of all species face increased risk because their immune systems are still developing and they may have limited energy reserves to combat illness. Elderly birds or those with chronic health conditions may have compromised immune function that increases susceptibility to infectious causes of diarrhea. Species from tropical origins may be more sensitive to temperature fluctuations that can trigger gastrointestinal upset. Immunosuppressed birds, including those on certain medications or with diseases affecting immune function, have reduced ability to fight off infections.

Among commonly kept companion birds, certain species warrant particular attention for gastrointestinal health. Lorikeets and lories, which have specialized digestive systems adapted for nectar feeding, are prone to digestive disturbances when diet is inappropriate. African Grey Parrots appear susceptible to stress-related gastrointestinal issues and may develop diarrhea in response to environmental changes. Macaws and other large parrots may be affected by proventricular dilatation disease, which causes chronic gastrointestinal dysfunction including diarrhea. Cockatiels are commonly affected by Giardia infections, which cause persistent diarrhea that requires specific treatment. Poultry species including chickens are susceptible to numerous bacterial and parasitic infections causing diarrhea, with implications for household flocks.

Screening recommendations help identify and prevent gastrointestinal problems in birds. New bird wellness examinations should include fecal testing for parasites and assessment of digestive health. Annual or biannual fecal examinations detect parasitic infections before they cause significant illness. Birds showing any signs of gastrointestinal disturbance should receive prompt veterinary evaluation rather than watchful waiting. Species known to be susceptible to specific infections may benefit from targeted testing. Breeding birds require particular attention to gastrointestinal health as many infections can be transmitted to offspring. Working with reputable breeders who maintain disease testing protocols reduces the risk of acquiring birds with chronic infections.

Several conditions commonly co-occur with or complicate diarrhea in birds. Dehydration develops rapidly during diarrhea and can become life-threatening if not addressed. Malnutrition results from decreased nutrient absorption during prolonged gastrointestinal illness. Secondary bacterial infections may develop when the normal intestinal barrier is compromised. Weight loss accompanies chronic diarrhea as the bird fails to obtain adequate nutrition. Electrolyte imbalances resulting from fluid and mineral losses affect multiple body systems. These complications require simultaneous management alongside treatment of the primary condition causing diarrhea.

Several conditions produce symptoms similar to diarrhea and must be differentiated for appropriate treatment. Polyuria, or increased urine output, is the most commonly confused condition and results from kidney disease, diabetes, or excessive water intake rather than gastrointestinal problems. Cloacal prolapse may be associated with straining from diarrhea but requires different treatment. Egg binding in female birds can cause straining and abnormal droppings that may be mistaken for gastrointestinal disease. Liver disease affects dropping appearance through bile pigment changes but has different underlying causes and treatment. Papillomatosis of the cloaca causes abnormal droppings and straining. Accurate diagnosis through veterinary examination and testing is essential because treatment for one condition may be ineffective or harmful for another.

Complications of untreated or severe diarrhea extend beyond the gastrointestinal tract. Cloacal prolapse may develop from chronic straining associated with severe diarrhea. Severe dehydration can lead to kidney failure and multi-organ dysfunction. Sepsis may develop if intestinal bacteria enter the bloodstream through a damaged gut lining. Chronic malnutrition from prolonged diarrhea affects feather quality, immune function, and overall health. In breeding birds, reproductive failure may result from the stress and nutritional deficits associated with chronic gastrointestinal disease. Prevention of these complications through prompt treatment emphasizes the importance of early veterinary intervention when diarrhea develops.