Medications that Cause Diarrhea
Antibiotics commonly cause diarrhea. The antibiotics will kill bacteria in the body, including helpful bacteria within the intestinal tract. When this occurs, diarrhea is often a side effect. Common antibiotics include:
- Amoxicillin
- Baytril (Enrofloxacin)
- Cephalexin
- Ciprofloxacin
- Clavamox
- Otomax (Clotrimazole)
- Penicillin
- Primor
- Tetracycline
Certain sulfa drugs also decrease helpful bacteria within the intestines. If your puppy is on a prescription medication and having diarrhea, call your vet for advice. Sometimes feeding the puppy some yogurt is enough to restore the balance of good bacteria within the intestines. Some might need their medication changed.
Dangers of Diarrhea
Diarrhea expels water from the body and quickly dehydrates a dog. With diarrhea, puppies are especially high risk for life-threatening dehydration. Diarrhea may occur with a new diet, an illness, parasites or because of medications in the system.
If there is blood in the diarrhea, puppies need veterinary care immediately. Anemia will kill a puppy.